Winter Weather Sensitivity

Teeth are typically most sensitive to cold foods and liquids. This is the reason you rarely see individuals bite into ice cream or a snow cone. Others who may have hypersensitive teeth can get irritated by a cool glass of milk. Similarly, one can have sensitivity to hot or warm foods, and drinks as well.

If you are lucky enough to live in a state with seasons, you probably experience a cooling-down period through winter. If you are REALLY lucky (like us) your cooling down period can reach temperatures down to -30 degrees!

In the winter, when your teeth are exposed to extremely cool air they contract. This can cause cracking and pain – similarly to the feeling of biting ice cream. If your enamel cracks this can cause the dentin or “core” to be exposed. The core of your tooth is where all your nerves are stored. Exposed nerves can cause extreme pain in hot and cool weather.

What is called Weather Sensitivity can happen to anyone, but it is more common for those who take poor care of their teeth, and live in a climate with intense temperature swings. Some other common culprits for tooth sensitivity can be:
– periodontal or gum disease
– brushing too hard or too vigorously
– grinding your teeth
– tooth decay
– teeth whitening
– acidic beverages

If you do experience seasonal sensitivity try these remedies both at the dentist and at home:
– use a fluoride toothpaste
– cover your mouth when outside with a scarf
– root canal treatment – removal of the dentin

Sensitivity to cold is typical, but if you are feeling intense pain or experience sensitivity when outside during the cool winter months, contact us and set up an appointment.