Why Your Teeth Are Sensitive to Cold Weather - A Guide from Your Family Dentist in Red Deer
Learn more about some of reasons why your teeth might be so sensitive to the cold and learn to identify the signs of a more serious problem.
If the thought of eating ice cream or sipping on a cold drink makes you cringe, it probably means you have cold-sensitive teeth. Do you also experience this sensation when you breathe in cold air? Sensitivity in these instances may indicate a more serious problem such as tooth decay or gum disease. Making a quick trip to your local dentist can help you determine the exact cause of your seasonally sensitive teeth and we can offer you the best solution for your pain.
4 Reasons for Hot and Cold Sensation in Teeth
Experiencing pain and/or extreme sensitivity to either hot or cold sensations is not normal and requires professional assessment. Here are some common causes for why your teeth may be hyper-sensitive to the cold, wintery weather:
- Temperature Fluctuations: Healthy teeth and gums can withstand a lot. However, prolonged exposure to extreme temperature changes like cold weather can affect your teeth. Similar to other materials, teeth expand and contract depending on changes in the environment. Tiny cracks may begin to form over time, as a result of these adjustments. Cracks in your teeth can lead to tooth sensitivity since the nerves beneath your enamel are now exposed.
- Cavities and Gum Disease: If your cold-sensitive teeth also experience pain under normal conditions, cavities or gum disease may be to blame. Poor oral hygiene habits such as irregular brushing and flossing can lead to plaque build-up. Plaque and leftover food particles can contribute to general tooth sensitivity.
- Grinding or Clenching Teeth: It is a normal reaction for your body to become tense when stepping into cold weather. Unfortunately, this reaction can lead you to grind or clench your teeth together while your body tries to stay warm. Continuous teeth grinding and clenching, especially at night while you are asleep, can wear down your tooth enamel and may eventually cause soreness in your jaw and tooth aches.
- Receding Gums: Gum recession can be a serious issue which can cause tooth sensitivity when exposed to cold air. Gums protect the highly sensitive roots of your teeth. When gums recede, these roots are uncovered and can cause significant pain as the feeling of cold can now easily reach the nerves. Visit your dentist if you notice your gum line pulling away from your teeth or if you are experiencing any sensitivity related to cool drinks or breathing cold air.
Stop Cold-Teeth Sensitivity with a Visit to Your Family Dentist in Red Deer
While it is impossible to stop the seasons from changing, you don’t have to continuously suffer through tooth pain and sensitivity. Practicing good oral hygiene habits and regularly visiting your dentist can help reduce any uncomfortable sensations you may experience in cold weather and get you back to feeling more like yourself again.
Call 403-342-1118 or use our online contact form to schedule your appointment at Parkland Mall Dental Centre today. We are welcoming new dental patients, so please don’t hesitate to ask how we can help you.