Why Are My Teeth Sensitive To Cold?

Imagine taking out your ice cream tub after a long day — only for your teeth to display symptoms of sensitivity as soon as they come in contact with the cold delicacy. Teeth sensitivity to cold is possible due to a number of reasons. So, if you’re wondering, ‘Why are my teeth sensitive to cold?’ keep reading!

Reasons Why You Have Tooth Sensitivity to Cold

Many people complain of teeth sensitivity to cold; while some have mild sensitivity, others experience pain when their teeth come in contact with possible triggers. You may experience a shooting pain that seems to travel through your teeth into your gums and radiates across your head. Tooth sensitivity, in general, triggers when the dental enamel or the outer protective layer of the tooth wears away. When enamel erosion takes place, it exposes the sensitive dentin layer of one’s tooth. Consequently, the nerves become stimulated when something cold or hot touches the dental enamel.

In addition, the enamel that covers part of a tooth above the gums and sensitivity might be accompanied by gum recession. Hence, the reason why your teeth are sensitive to cold might include the following:

Cavity
Tooth decay
Chipped or bruised tooth
Bruxism
Gum disease
Gum recession
Abrasive dental care products
Dental work
Acidic foods
Infection in the teeth
Aggressive brushing
Smoking
Tobacco consumption or usage
Poor oral care
Bad oral hygiene

Tips To Alleviate Teeth Sensitivity To Cold

Here are some ways to relieve tooth sensitivity due to cold:

Use a Straw to Drink: When you are drinking, you can make sure the beverage does not touch your teeth and trigger sensitivity by using a straw. Therefore, you can sip through a straw to avoid discomfort, as the drink will bypass your tooth.
Try a Different Technique to Have Desserts: Teeth sensitivity to cold does not necessarily mean you have to give up on your favorite desserts. Hence, instead of biting into the ice cream or cold desserts, you can try licking. By doing so, your teeth do not come in contact with the cold trigger, saving you from the twinge of sensitivity.
Breathe Through Your Nose: While mouth breathing has a number of disadvantages, it can contribute to increased teeth sensitivity. If you breathe through your mouth, the gust of cold air will hit your affected tooth, resulting in discomfort. To avoid this, breathe through your nose and make sure your teeth are not exposed when you are outside,
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Another way to avoid tooth sensitivity to cold is by maintaining proper oral care. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing once, a proper and balanced diet, and regular dental cleaning sessions. Moreover, a fluoride treatment might help strengthen your teeth against sensitivity to cold and other factors — talk to your dentist.
Refrain from Having Acidic Foods & Drinks: You may enjoy your acidic food and drink, but all they do is wear away the tooth enamel. Gradually, regular exposure to such acidic food items leads to teeth sensitivity to cold, hot, sweet, and more. Thus, you may want to avoid soft drinks, citrus foods, pickles, tomatoes, and more. You can consult a professional regarding diet.

Closing Word

If your teeth have increased sensitivity to cold, it is better to let our Hermosa Dental team have a look at them. Our effective procedure will leave your teeth stronger and healthier than before. So, why the wait? Give us a ring at: