Have you noticed your teeth hurt during colder weather? As temperatures plummet in the winter months, it can leave our teeth feeling a lot more sensitive than usual. Even if you don’t typically experience tooth sensitivity, this can quickly change in cold weather.

In most cases, patients can manage their tooth sensitivity with a range of at-home treatments. However, sometimes it could be a sign that something else is going on underneath the surface. Here, we look at some of the most common reasons your teeth hurt in cold weather.

A sudden change in temperature

The sudden drop in temperature can cause the teeth to hurt. Even if you don’t usually experience sensitive teeth, that could change while you are out during the colder weather. You may notice it hurts when you take a deep breath through your mouth, or when speaking to somebody outdoors.

This is a natural response to the change in temperature as teeth expand in the cold, and cracks can develop in the enamel. These cracks can expand further and cause permanent damage if not treated quickly. Therefore, it is worth booking a dental check-up so any damage can be repaired straight away.

Sensitive nerves/thin enamel

Some people have naturally more sensitive teeth than others. Your dental nerve may be enlarged, damaged, or overactive, causing it to be more sensitive than usual. Similarly, thin enamel can also cause sensitivity as there is little protection between the nerves and the cold air.

Looking into ways to restore and protect your enamel will help to prevent tooth sensitivity in the colder weather. Our dentists can recommend the best treatments that will give you the best protection.

Receding gums

When the gums recede, they leave the roots of the tooth exposed. Unfortunately, the roots tend to be hypersensitive to any outside stimuli. When the temperature drops, this can lead to a sharp, intense pain.

Receding gums can also be a sign of gum disease. If you suspect you do have gum disease, it is imperative to seek treatment from your dentist. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to more severe health issues.

Cavities

If you feel a sharp or throbbing sensation in your tooth, or pain while you bite down, it could be a sign you have cavities. Over time, untreated cavities can lead to infection, which can be extremely painful. If you notice cold sensations within the tooth, it could be an indicator that something is wrong. Again, this is something you should get checked out immediately by your dentist.

Teeth grinding

If you regularly grind your teeth, it will wear down the surface of the tooth, as well as create tiny chips. This can reveal the dentin underneath, which is extremely sensitive to colder temperatures. The enamel of the teeth doesn’t grow back, so unless treatment is sought, your sensitivity issues will be ongoing.

If you are experiencing painful or sensitive teeth this winter, book a check-up with one of our friendly and skilled dentists. They will help get to the cause of the problem quickly, and advise you on the best treatments to eliminate it.