What Causes Winter Tooth Sensitivity
December 22, 2015
If you notice an increase in tooth sensitivity when the weather turns cold, you’re not alone. There are a number of oral health problems that can be exacerbated by cold and harsh winter weather, and tooth pain is one of the most persistent and irritating. These are some of the common causes of sensitive teeth, and how you can manage them.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
There are three major causes of tooth sensitivity, all of which can be exacerbated by winter weather.
- Temperature: Exposure to hot and cold can send a jolt of pain directly to the nerve buried in the tooth. Most people have noticed this when biting into cold ice cream or sipping a hot cup of coffee, but when cold wind blows on the teeth it can also cause pain.
- Certain Foods: Sugary or acidic foods can also trigger tooth sensitivity. Once again, this can happen at any time of the year, but the big holiday meals people tend to indulge in during winter may make tooth pain more pronounced. Common holiday treats like cider, pie, candy and cranberry sauce can be especially triggering.
- Dryness: Winter weather draws moisture out of the mouth. Dry gums are more likely to feel sensitive and more susceptible to the other causes of tooth pain.
How to Deal with Sensitive Teeth
There are several steps you can take to manage tooth sensitivity. Consider switching to a toothpaste designed specifically for sensitive teeth, or a toothbrush with softer bristles. You may also want to avoid some of the common triggers as best you can. However, if pain persists, schedule a visit with us to ensure that a cavity or gum disease is not the underlying cause of your sensitive teeth.
For advice on how to deal with your sensitive teeth call Dr. E. Dale Behner, your trusted dentist in Fishers, IN at 317-348-3927.