Some Possible Causes And Solutions

As winter approaches, it’s not uncommon to experience pain and sensitivity in the teeth. Cold air and blasts of wind can be rough on the teeth, especially if you’re drinking a hot cappuccino outside at the same time. When temperature changes occur, your teeth expand and contrast, just like other materials. Your front teeth especially can change as much as 120 degrees.

In some cases, changing your toothpaste may be all that you need. Other times your teeth’s sensitivity is an indication of a more serious issue.

Here are some other possible reasons that your teeth hurt in the cold:

Worn Enamel

The outside layer of your teeth is called enamel. Enamel protects the nerves inside your tooth. If your enamel is worn due to consuming too many acidic foods, teeth grinding, or other reasons, the nerves are more exposed, causing your teeth to be more sensitive to temperature changes.

Cavities

Sometimes cavities are the cause of increased sensitivity, especially if the infection has reached the heart of your tooth. A pulp vitality test performed by your dentist can show how your teeth respond to temperature changes. This test involves placing a hot or cold instrument on each tooth.

Cracks In The Teeth

A tooth also becomes more sensitive if it develops litt cracks, which provide a pathway to the nerve. These cracks can develop for a number of reasons, such as pressure on the teeth from cracking nuts, etc, or as your teeth expand and contract with exposure to hot and cold temperatures.

Receding Gums

If your gums are receding, more of your tooth is exposed, including the tooth’s root. This makes it easier for sensations of hot or cold to travel to the nerves of your teeth.

Here how to reduce tooth sensitivity

Switch To A Toothpaste For Sensitive Teeth

Look for a toothpaste that delivers minerals into the enamel to protect your teeth from acid erosion and to seal off access to the nerves in your teeth to block pain. Stay away from abrasive toothpaste and tooth whitening treatments as well.

Use A Soft-Bristled Toothbrush

Hard toothbrushes and motions wear your enamel. Use gentle strokes, rather than vigorous or harsh scrubbing.

Breathe Through The Nose

When you’re outdoors in the winter, try to breathe through the nose to avoid bursts of cold air and wind hitting your teeth directly.

Protect Your Teeth From Grinding

If you think you might be grinding your teeth, talk to your dentist about ways to protect your teeth. A nighttime mouth guard could be a great option for you.

Remember to come in for your check-up at least once every six months. I am Dr. Onatsky, and I can help you with tooth sensitivity. Call today to schedule an appointment: 718-621-0827. Onatsky Dental Clinic is located at 2960 Ocean Ave 1st Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11235.