Many people start to experience increased tooth sensitivity when outside in the cold. It can cause discomfort and pain in the teeth, making it difficult to enjoy ourselves.

It’s extremely common, with 1 in 8 people likely to suffer with sensitive teeth. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of sensitive teeth, its symptoms, and how to help prevent it when outside in the cold weather.

So what exactly causes Sensitive Teeth?

Sensitive teeth are caused by damage or loss of enamel. This is the outer hard surface of your teeth. When this starts to erode, the inner layer of dentine is then exposed. These provide a direct path to the nerves in your tooth, which is what gives the sensation of pain.

Tooth sensitivity can also be caused by a variety of other factors, including:

• Tooth decay or cavities
• Gum recession
• Cracked or chipped teeth
• Teeth grinding
• Aggressive brushing
• Acidic foods and drinks
• Dental procedures like teeth whitening or orthodontic treatments

The symptoms of Sensitive Teeth

If you have sensitive teeth, you may feel a sharp pain which comes on from cold air, hot air or acidic drinks. You could also experience some or all of the following symptoms:

• Pain or discomfort when consuming hot or cold foods and drinks
• Sensitivity to sweet or sour foods
• Pain when brushing or flossing
• Pain when breathing in cold air
• Aching or sharp pain in the teeth

Why does the cold weather make sensitive teeth feel worse?

The cold weather can worsen tooth sensitivity because the sudden change in temperature can cause the nerves in the teeth to become more reactive. When the temperature drops, the blood vessels in the teeth contract, causing the nerves to become more exposed and reactive. This ultimately leads to an increase in tooth sensitivity and discomfort.

Preventing Sensitive Teeth

Here are some of our top tips to prevent sensitive teeth from causing you discomfort during the cold weather:

• Wear a scarf or a face mask to cover your mouth and keep it warm when you are outdoors. This will prevent cold air from reaching your teeth and causing sensitivity.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing techniques to avoid damaging your enamel and gums.
• Avoid acidic foods and drinks like citrus fruits, soda, and sports drinks that can cause enamel erosion.
• Use a fluoride toothpaste that can help strengthen your enamel and reduce tooth sensitivity.
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional teeth cleaning to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Tooth sensitivity can be a real problem during the cold weather, but it is preventable. By taking the steps mentioned above, you can keep your teeth healthy and comfortable when outside. 

If you experience persistent or severe tooth sensitivity, get in touch with us today. With our experience and level of care and expertise, we can help!