Ever take a sip of ice water and feel a sharp, shooting pain in your teeth? That’s tooth sensitivity, and it’s surprisingly common. When the dentin layer beneath your enamel is exposed, cold temperatures can trigger a painful reaction.
This sensitivity is most often caused by receding gums or worn enamel. It’s estimated that more than 40 million adults in the United States experience tooth sensitivity.
If your teeth hurt from cold, this article will help you understand why and offer some practical solutions to manage and prevent it.
What causes tooth sensitivity to cold?
There are several reasons why your teeth might hurt when they come into contact with cold foods or drinks.
Enamel erosion and dentin exposure
Enamel is the tough, outer layer of your teeth that protects them from damage.
When the enamel wears away, the next layer of the tooth, called dentin, becomes exposed. Dentin is softer than enamel and contains tiny tubules that lead directly to the tooth’s nerve center. When these tubules are exposed, hot, cold, sweet, or acidic substances can stimulate the nerves and cause pain.
Enamel erosion can be caused by acidic foods and drinks, brushing your teeth too hard, or grinding your teeth.
Receding gums
Receding gums expose the roots of your teeth, which aren’t protected by enamel. This can lead to increased sensitivity.
Gum recession can be caused by gum disease, brushing too aggressively, or genetics.
Other contributing factors
Tooth decay and cavities can weaken enamel and lead to sensitivity.
Cracked or chipped teeth can expose the inner layers of the tooth.
Recent dental work, like fillings or whitening, can temporarily increase sensitivity.
Managing Tooth Sensitivity to Cold: Practical Strategies
If you’re experiencing tooth pain from cold, here are a few things you can do to manage the sensitivity.
Oral Hygiene Practices
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Soft bristles are gentler on your tooth enamel and gums.
- Brush gently and avoid abrasive toothpastes. Toothpastes that are too abrasive can erode your enamel.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria. Flossing helps prevent gum disease, which can lead to gum recession and tooth sensitivity.
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride strengthens your enamel and helps protect against decay.
Dietary Modifications
- Limit acidic foods and drinks. Acid erodes enamel, which can make your teeth more sensitive.
- Drink water after you consume acidic or carbonated beverages. Water helps neutralize the acids in your mouth.
Desensitizing Products
- Toothpaste for sensitive teeth. These toothpastes contain ingredients that block pain signals.
- Fluoride mouthwash. Fluoride strengthens enamel and reduces sensitivity.
Professional dental treatments for sensitive teeth
If over-the-counter remedies aren’t doing the trick, your dentist has a range of treatments that may help.
Fluoride varnish
A dentist can paint fluoride varnish onto your teeth to strengthen your enamel and make your teeth less sensitive.
Desensitizing agents
Dentists can apply desensitizing agents that are stronger than anything you can buy at the drugstore.
Dental procedures
If your teeth are hurting because of a cavity, a filling can take care of the problem. Bonding can cover exposed roots, and gum grafts can cover gums that are receding and leaving the roots of your teeth vulnerable.
Importance of regular dental checkups
The best way to head off any problems with tooth sensitivity is to keep up with your regular dental checkups. Your dentist can spot any underlying issues and treat them before they get to the point of causing you pain.
To Conclude
If your teeth hurt when they’re exposed to cold air or ice water, you’re not alone. Tooth sensitivity is common, and fortunately, it’s also manageable.
To reduce the discomfort, practice good oral hygiene, make some changes to your diet, and get professional dental care.
By taking these steps, you can protect your teeth and significantly reduce sensitivity, so you can enjoy your favorite foods and beverages without pain.