Is This Cold Snap Hurting Your Teeth?
Sensitivity and Pain – What to Do?
Weather reports keep letting us know that the weather is set to give us many more freezing temperatures before spring sets in – and this could be causing you problems if you suffer from sensitive teeth!
As the weather becomes colder, those with sensitive teeth could struggle with more tooth pain than usual.
A blast of freezing air on exposed teeth can cause the same amount of pain as an iced drink or hot food. Ouch!
Why Are The Freezing Temperatures Causing Tooth Pain?
When you are outside you are breathing in through your mouth and the freezing air impacts on your teeth which contract very slightly. Once back in warmer temperatures again, they then expand back to normal. Sudden temperature changes cause this process to happen quickly which is stressful for the tooth materials and can cause tiny little cracks which lead to sensitivity. The nasty pains you feel in your teeth with hot and cold temperatures are commonly caused by the sensitive nerves of the tooth being exposed through these tiny cracks.
However, the pain can also be caused by other reasons including:
- Teeth that have majority amalgam fillings
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay
- Particularly porous teeth
- Infections
- Bruxism
- Issues with bite
- Gum disease gum recession
- Tooth cracks
- Crown or bridge issues
- Issues with fillings
- Sinus issues
Preventing Tooth Sensitivity
There are ways to prevent tooth sensitivity and the pain you experience because of it. In the cold weather one easy way to avoid that twinge of pain is to avoid breathing through your mouth. Preventative action also includes ensuring you practice proper oral care with regular visits to Abbey Road Dental, brushing effectively twice a day, using the right toothbrush and toothpaste. And seeing us at our handy St John’s Wood clinic if you are suffering from any dental issues at all!
When Is It Time To See A Dentist?
You should visit Abbey Road Dental if you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity for the first time. It is important we look into the cause of the sensitivity so that the cause can be diagnosed and treated. It may be a symptom of gum disease which responds well to early intervention. It could also be related to an infection which needs treatment like root canal to save the tooth. There are lots of causes of tooth sensitivity which can be treated, but it may also be a case of managing the sensitivity once the cause has been diagnosed, if it cannot be treated. There are treatments like flouride paints and special toothpastes which can help, as well as advice on avoiding things that cause you pain like freezing cold air or some spicy foods.
Book An Appointment With Abbey Road Dental Today
You should be able to enjoy a walk through a chilly winter landscape without wincing with tooth pain, so please book an appointment with our NW8 clinic today so that we can help you feel comfortable once again. Please call 02076241603 and we will book you an appointment at a time convenient to you.
