Ever get that sharp, shooting pain in your teeth when you drink something cold? You’re definitely not alone. Many people experience this fleeting discomfort when their teeth come into contact with cold water or even cold air.
While sometimes this tooth sensitivity is just a temporary annoyance, it can also be a sign of an underlying dental problem. If you notice that your tooth hurts from cold water regularly, it’s worth looking into.
This article will explore the most common causes of tooth sensitivity to cold, as well as what you can do to manage the pain and potential treatment options.
Why does cold water make my tooth hurt?
To understand why cold water triggers tooth pain, it helps to know a little bit about tooth anatomy. Your teeth have an outer layer of enamel that protects the sensitive dentin underneath. Dentin contains microscopic tubes that lead directly to the pulp, where the nerve endings are.
When your enamel is damaged or worn away, cold stimuli can reach those nerve endings, causing a jolt of pain.
Dentists call this dentin hypersensitivity, but you probably know it as tooth sensitivity. It involves a sharp pain that occurs when your teeth are exposed to temperature changes, sugary or acidic foods, or even cold air.
It’s a pretty common problem. Experts estimate that as many as 45 million people in the United States experience temperature-related tooth sensitivity.
Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity to Cold
If you’re feeling a zing of pain when you drink something cold, you’re probably experiencing tooth sensitivity. Here are some of the most common reasons why your teeth might be reacting to cold.
Loss of Tooth Enamel
The enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth. When it erodes, the layer underneath, called dentin, is exposed. Dentin contains tiny tubules that lead directly to the nerve of your tooth. Acidic foods and drinks, aggressive brushing, and teeth grinding can all wear away your enamel. Even some abrasive toothpastes can contribute to enamel loss.
Receding Gums
When your gums recede, the root surface of your tooth becomes exposed. Unlike the enamel-covered crown of your tooth, the root is covered in a softer material called cementum, which wears away more easily. Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis) is a major reason why gums recede. In fact, research suggests that 80% of tooth sensitivity starts at the gum line.
Tooth Decay
Cavities compromise the structure of your tooth. Decay creates holes in the enamel, allowing cold to reach the dentin and irritate the nerve.
Cracks or Fractures in a Tooth
Even small cracks in a tooth can allow cold to penetrate and irritate the pulp, the innermost part of the tooth that contains the nerve.
Other potential causes
An abscess or a recent dental procedure may also cause tooth sensitivity.
Temperature Sensitivity Symptoms: Recognizing the Problem
If you have a tooth that hurts when you drink something cold, you’re probably experiencing tooth sensitivity. The pain is usually sharp and sudden, and it happens in response to hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods and drinks.
Not all tooth sensitivity is the same. Some people have a mild reaction, while others find the pain nearly unbearable.
Less Than 15 Seconds of Sensitivity
If the pain is mild and doesn’t last for more than a few seconds, you may be able to treat it at home.
Sensitivity That Lasts 30 Seconds or More
If the pain is severe or lasts for 30 seconds or longer after you’ve finished eating or drinking, you should see a dentist.
Keep in mind that the pain may be focused on one tooth, or it may seem to come from all over your mouth.
At-home solutions for managing tooth sensitivity
If you’re dealing with tooth sensitivity, there are a few things you can do at home to help manage the discomfort.
Oral hygiene practices
It’s important to brush and floss every day, but there are a few ways to modify your routine to ease tooth sensitivity:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently.
- Floss daily to get rid of plaque and bacteria.
- Switch to a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth, such as Sensodyne. These toothpastes contain ingredients like potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride, which help block the nerve signals that cause pain.
Dietary modifications
Certain foods and drinks can make tooth sensitivity worse, so it’s a good idea to limit or avoid them:
- Limit acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits and soda.
- Avoid sugary snacks and drinks.
Other helpful habits
Here are a few other habits that may help you deal with tooth sensitivity:
- Drink cold beverages through a straw.
- Breathe through your nose, especially when you’re outside in cold weather.
- Use a fluoride mouthwash to help strengthen your tooth enamel.
Night guards
If you grind or clench your teeth at night (bruxism), wearing a mouthguard can protect your teeth and reduce sensitivity.
When should I see a dentist?
If your teeth hurt from cold water consistently, you should see a dentist. They can figure out what’s causing the problem and recommend the best treatment.
A dentist might recommend:
- Fluoride varnish to strengthen your enamel
- Dental restorations to fix cavities or damage
- A root canal to treat severe tooth pain
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you fix a sensitive tooth to cold?
Fixing a sensitive tooth to cold involves addressing the underlying cause. This could mean using desensitizing toothpaste specifically formulated to block pain signals. Your dentist might also recommend fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel or sealants to cover exposed dentin. If gum recession is the culprit, a gum graft might be necessary.
How do you get rid of tooth pain from cold water?
Getting rid of tooth pain from cold water often starts with temporary relief. Try using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing techniques to avoid irritating the sensitive area. Avoid acidic foods and drinks that can erode enamel further. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage the pain temporarily. But the best solution is to see your dentist to diagnose the cause and determine the proper treatment, which could include fillings, root canals or tooth extraction.
In Conclusion
If your tooth hurts when you drink cold water, it’s important to figure out why and address the root cause. Taking action early can keep a minor irritation from turning into a more serious dental problem.
As you work to make your teeth less sensitive, remember the basics: good oral hygiene, being mindful of what you eat and drink, and seeing your dentist regularly.
By taking proactive steps to manage tooth sensitivity, you can maintain good oral health and enjoy a pain-free smile for years to come.