Why does the Cold Air make my Teeth Hurt?

1. Extreme Cold

After coming indoors from the cold, your teeth may feel the need to expand as the body warms up. The result might be fissures in the tooth enamel that ultimately lead to the sensitive dentin underneath. Our family dentists explain that cold-sensitive nerve fibers cover your dentin, which may explain why you feel greater pain and suffering in the winter. Maintaining regular dental examinations may reduce your tooth decay and enamel erosion risk, both of which can lead to cracks in your teeth.

2. Sugar-Filled Treats

When winter arrives, it’s time for holiday parties and feasts filled with sweets and other celebratory foods. Too much sugar may lead to cavities, gum disease, and tooth enamel loss, all of which can make your teeth more sensitive. To further preserve your teeth, try drinking water after meals and passing on hard candies that may chip or shatter teeth, exposing the delicate dentin underneath.

3. Home Whitening Treatments

A home teeth whitening kit may seem like a good option if you want to improve your appearance before upcoming social or family activities. Over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments are problematic because many include harsh chemicals that might remove enamel from your teeth, exposing the sensitive dentin below. Having your teeth whitened by our Jeffersonville cosmetic dentists is always the safest and most effective option if you would like to brighten your pearly whites.

4. Seasonal Illness

Your discomfort and sensitivity may not be related to your teeth at all. Colds, sinus infections, and the flu are more common in the winter because your immune system is weaker, and there is a higher germ concentration in the air. Pressure on the dental nerves may result in discomfort and sensitivity if the sinuses become inflamed and irritated as a result of nasal congestion or infection.

5. Aggressive Brushing

It’s natural to want to give your teeth an extra thorough cleaning after consuming a higher-than-usual amount of sugar. However, our Louisville family dentists warn that overzealous brushing may do more damage than good by wearing away your enamel and exposing the more sensitive dentin layer. Brush your teeth thoroughly and carefully, taking your time. You should floss and use mouthwash regularly. If you’re not sure which toothbrush is best or you would like brushing and flossing tips, be sure to ask us the next time you visit the dentist.

Family Dentist in Jeffersonville, Indiana, and Louisville and Shepherdsville, Kentucky

The painful sensations you feel in your teeth when frigid winter temperatures strike may indicate potential tooth enamel issues that require treatment by a professional dentist. Through preventive treatments, we can reduce the pain and protect your teeth from further attacks. If you feel discomfort in your mouth when you eat or drink something that’s extremely hot or cold or when you enter a warm space from freezing outdoor temperatures, you should visit our Shepherdsville dental office for an exam and treatment. Please call Exceptional Dentistry at (502) 423-7868 or contact us online to request an appointment today and regain a pain-free winter.