You can feel it in the air; the long summer days are slipping away, and they’re being replaced by a cool crispness that means fall is here and winter is just around the corner. There’s a lot to look forward to when the seasons change: your favorite pumpkin spice coffee is back on the menu, you’re gathering with friends and family for the holidays, and it’s a chance to finally snuggle up under a blanket and read that book you’ve been dying to start.
Winter also brings colder weather, and as the temperature drops, you may notice increased tooth sensitivity, causing discomfort and making it difficult to spend time outside doing the things you enjoy.
So, let’s explore how cold weather can affect your teeth and what your Centerville, Ohio, dental office can do to help.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, you’re not alone. Some studies indicate that anywhere from 25-30% of adults experience some form of dentin hypersensitivity. Whether it’s marked by a sharp, sudden pain that lingers or more of a fleeting pain that only happens when something triggers it, it’s unpleasant and uncomfortable.
Some of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity include the following:
- Worn tooth enamel — Your tooth enamel can wear down if you brush your teeth too hard, grind your teeth, eat acidic foods, or drink acidic beverages. Worn enamel exposes your tooth’s dentin layer, causing sensitivity.
- Exposed roots — When your gums recede, whether it’s due to gum disease, aggressive brushing, or ageing, your tooth’s roots are exposed. Because the roots of your teeth don’t have enamel to protect them, they are prone to sensitivity.
- Tooth decay — When an untreated cavity penetrates your tooth enamel, it can reach your tooth’s inner layer and cause nerve pain and sensitivity.
- Cracked or chipped teeth — If you break or chip a tooth, it can expose your tooth’s inner pulp chamber and cause discomfort and sensitivity issues.
- Teeth whitening — Even with professional teeth whitening products supervised by your dental team, you can still experience temporary sensitivity. Additionally, overusing or misusing over-the-counter whitening treatments can also cause sensitivity.
The Most Common Culprits: Cold Air and Drinks
Now that winter is right around the corner, you’ll be spending time in the colder air, and you might want some hot coffee, a steaming cup of hot chocolate, or apple cider to warm your insides.
Unfortunately, cold air, as well as hot and cold drinks, can affect your sensitive teeth.
Here’s how:
Your tooth’s dentin layer contains thousands of tiny tubes, known as dentinal tubules. These tubules lead directly to your tooth’s nerve center. When you’re outside in the cold, or when you take a sip from a hot or cold drink, either the cold air or the drink’s temperature travels directly to your tooth’s nerves, causing an unpleasant and painful sensation.
Not only that, but when you go from being out in cold temperatures to going back inside where it’s warm, these rapid temperature changes cause your teeth to contract and expand, causing tiny cracks in your tooth enamel. This can increase your sensitivity.
How Your Dentist Can Help
The good news is that the dental team at Ohio Holistic Dental Center understands how frustrating and uncomfortable tooth sensitivity can be; that’s why we’re here to offer real solutions.
When you visit us for a consultation, we’ll offer the following options and help you make the best decision for your smile:
Desensitizing Treatments
- Fluoride treatment — Applying a fluoride varnish to your sensitive teeth can strengthen your enamel and reduce discomfort.
- Sealants — We use dental sealants to add a protective layer to your tooth’s surface, sealing off the exposed dentin layer.
- Dental bonding — For exposed roots, adding a layer of tooth-colored resin can often cover the area and decrease sensitivity issues.
Dental Products
- Desensitizing toothpaste — We can recommend a prescription-strength toothpaste that will block nerve signals and alleviate sensitivity. It’s more powerful than over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste.
- Fluoride products — We may be able to prescribe a fluoride gel or mouthwash to strengthen your tooth enamel, resulting in reduced sensitivity and increased comfort.
Experiencing Tooth Sensitivity in Centerville, Ohio?
If you’re dreading the winter months because you know how it will affect your teeth, our experienced dental team will happily assist you! Your comfort and oral health are our top priority, and we’ll do whatever we can to help you achieve both.
To schedule a consultation or appointment at Ohio Holistic Dental Center, please call us at (937) 428-2288.
We look forward to hearing from you soon!