Tips for Teeth Sensitivity in the Cold Weather

While Colorado has been having a relatively mild winter this year, the cold still always brings complaints by some of our clients—namely, teeth sensitivity in the cold weather. Anyone who has had teeth sensitivity due to the cold knows that it’s truly not a pleasurable experience, and for those who suffer from this issue during the winter months, it can really hinder enjoyment of all the lovely outdoor activities we Coloradans get to participate in.

So why do teeth get sensitive in the cold?

When outside, breathing in and out in an abnormal way can cause teeth to contract and expand in ways that make the teeth more sensitive. As your teeth expand and contract, the second layer of your teeth—called the dentin—expands and contracts faster than the enamel, which is your first layer of your teeth. When this happens, little cracks can happen that don’t damage the structure of your teeth but will cause pain and sensitivity.

Teeth sensitivity can also be caused by a number of other factors, such as receding or infected gums, defective fillings or bridges, bite problems, tooth grinding, cavities, and other issues. So please consult Victory Dental if you think you may have other underlying dental issues that are making your sensitive teeth worse.

What are some ways to prevent teeth sensitivity?

The good thing is that in a lot of cases, sensitive teeth can be remedied through simple methods.

In the winter months, try to breathe out of your nose as much as possible, because the tongue, lips, and cheek all provide an insular layer for your teeth. Also make sure that you’re implementing proper dental hygiene—such as brushing, flossing, and rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash that doesn’t contain alcohol. Try switching to a sensitive toothpaste or wearing a bite guard to reduce pressure on your teeth. A dentist may even suggest something like a brush-on fluoride gel.

However, in some cases these precautions are not enough. If your issue persists and gets worse, then a dentist might consider brushing your teeth with fluoride varnishes, plastic resins, fillings, or lasers. There are plenty of options available if simpler methods just aren’t working out for you that a professional dentist can help implement.

Again, there can be many other factors that play into tooth sensitivity—so don’t suffer needlessly! Come and consult Victory Dental if you have questions or concerns.