Many people notice their teeth are more sensitive when they step into colder weather or drink something warm after being in the cold. Your friendly dentist in Fairfield, CT, is here to help you understand why this happens and how to protect your smile.
Winter does not have to make your teeth hurt. With the right care, you can feel better and enjoy the season. Call (203) 335-1011 to book a visit with Gary Horblitt, D.D.S., for complete care in Fairfield, CT, today!
Why Cold Air Makes Teeth Hurt
Are you one of the estimated 25% of adults who experience tooth sensitivity? If so, you might notice that your teeth feel more sensitive when temperatures drop. Here’s why:
Cold air can move through small openings in your teeth. These tiny openings lead to the inside of your tooth, where the nerves live. When cold air hits those nerves, you may feel quick, sharp pain.
Your dentist in Fairfield, CT, may check to see if your enamel is thin or worn down. When enamel wears away, it exposes the sensitive part under it. This is one of the most common reasons for winter tooth pain.
How Enamel Loss Causes Sensitivity
Enamel is the hard outer layer of your teeth. It protects your teeth from hot, cold, sweet, and acidic things. If enamel gets weak, your teeth become more sensitive.
Some things that cause enamel to wear away include:
- Brushing too hard
- Grinding your teeth
- Eating or drinking too many acidic foods and drinks
- Gum recession
Your dentist in Fairfield, CT, can explain what might be affecting your enamel and how to protect it.
Gum Recession and Winter Tooth Pain
Gum recession happens when your gums pull back from your teeth. When gums move back, they expose the root of the tooth. The root does not have enamel, so it is very sensitive to temperature changes.
Cold weather can make root surfaces hurt even more. If you notice pain when the wind hits your mouth, gum recession may be part of the problem. Your dentist in Fairfield, CT, can check your gums and help you understand what is going on.
Other Winter Triggers That Cause Sensitivity
In addition to thin enamel and gum recession, your dentist in Fairfield, CT, says other winter factors that cause tooth sensitivity include:
Breathing Through Your Mouth
Many people breathe through their mouths when they walk in cold weather. Cold air hits the teeth and makes them hurt. A scarf or mask can help warm the air before it reaches your teeth.
Cold to Hot Temperature Changes
You step inside from the cold and sip hot coffee or tea. That fast change in temperature can make sensitive teeth hurt more.
Dry Winter Air and Indoor Heaters
Indoor heaters can dry out your mouth. A dry mouth does not protect your teeth as well. This can make your teeth feel more sensitive.
When You Should See a Dentist in Fairfield, CT
If your teeth feel sensitive for more than 10 days, it is a good idea to get them checked by Dr. Horblitt. Tooth sensitivity can sometimes be a sign of a cavity, cracked tooth, or gum disease. A quick visit with your dentist in Fairfield, CT, can help find the cause and stop the problem early.
Keep Your Smile Comfortable This Winter with Gary Horblitt, D.D.S.
Tooth sensitivity in winter is very common. But you do not have to live with the pain. Click here to get help from your dentist in Fairfield, CT, or call (203) 335-1011 to protect your smile all season long.
