Have you ever stepped outside on a cold morning, taken a breath and suddenly felt a sharp twinge in one of your teeth?
Sensitive teeth in cold weather can become much more noticeable. Cold air, chilly drinks and even simply breathing through your mouth outdoors can be enough to trigger that familiar short, sharp sensation.
But does cold weather actually cause sensitive teeth? And when is sensitivity something you should speak to your dentist about?
Why are sensitive teeth worse in cold weather?
Cold weather itself isn’t usually the underlying cause of sensitive teeth. Instead, lower temperatures can make existing sensitivity more noticeable.
A healthy tooth has a hard outer layer of enamel that helps protect the more sensitive areas underneath. If that protection becomes compromised, or if part of the tooth’s root becomes exposed, hot and cold temperatures can reach the more sensitive parts of the tooth more easily.
That’s why something as simple as breathing in cold air can sometimes produce a sudden twinge.
Why do teeth become sensitive?
There isn’t one single cause of tooth sensitivity.
Enamel can gradually become worn, while gums can recede and expose areas of the tooth that aren’t as well protected. Brushing too aggressively can also contribute to problems with enamel and gums.
Sensitivity can sometimes be associated with other dental issues too, including tooth decay, a cracked or damaged tooth, gum problems or a filling that needs attention.
That’s one reason it’s worth paying attention to a change in sensitivity rather than simply assuming it’s the weather.
Why does cold affect sensitive teeth?
Underneath the enamel is a layer called dentine. Dentine contains microscopic channels which lead towards the nerves inside the tooth.
When dentine becomes exposed, changes in temperature can travel through these tiny channels and stimulate the nerves. The result can be the short, sharp pain we associate with sensitive teeth.
During the colder months, you may simply encounter more triggers. A blast of cold air when you leave the house, a cold drink or moving between a warm building and the outdoors can suddenly make you much more aware of a sensitive tooth.
For people who already experience tooth sensitivity, this is why sensitive teeth in cold weather can seem particularly troublesome.
What can you do about sensitive teeth?
If your teeth are sensitive, there are a few simple things you can do.
A toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth may help when used regularly. It’s also important to brush gently using a fluoride toothpaste rather than scrubbing your teeth too firmly.
Try not to brush immediately after consuming acidic foods or drinks, as acids temporarily soften the enamel. Cleaning between your teeth every day should also remain part of your normal dental routine.
Most importantly, don’t simply put up with sensitivity if it keeps happening.
When should you see a dentist about tooth sensitivity?
An occasional brief twinge doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a problem with your teeth. However, sensitivity that’s new, persistent, particularly painful or seems to be coming from one specific tooth is worth getting checked.
It’s especially important to seek advice if the discomfort lingers after the cold trigger has gone, is getting worse, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain when biting.
Your dentist can examine the tooth and establish what’s actually causing the sensitivity. Depending on the cause, treatment might be very straightforward.
Don’t let the colder weather take the blame
When sensitive teeth become more noticeable in autumn or winter, it’s easy to blame the temperature.
But the cold may simply be highlighting something that was already there. If you’re experiencing sensitive teeth in cold weather, particularly if the sensitivity is new or affecting one particular area, a dental examination can help identify the cause and determine whether anything needs to be done.
Esthetique Dental is based in Hadnall, just outside Shrewsbury, and we welcome patients from across Shropshire.
If you’re looking for a dentist in Shrewsbury or you’re concerned about tooth sensitivity, get in touch with our friendly team to arrange an appointment.
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