Winter Weather And Sensitive Teeth

Staying comfortable as the cold weather strikes

Most of us appreciate the Christmas card image of a landscape covered in frost and snow, but when the reality of this type of weather arrives, it brings its challenges as well.

Icy roads and unsteady feet are some of the more obvious risks of snow and ice, but even the drop in temperature itself can bring a lot of challenges for some of our patients at the Cygnet Dental Practice in Wickford.

A drop in temperature often brings misery to people who have sensitive teeth. From a general sense of additional sensitivity that makes eating and drinking less enjoyable, to sharp and significant pain as the cold weather hits the nerves in the teeth, there is little doubt that sensitive teeth are something to be avoided if possible.

What causes tooth sensitivity?

Before we look at what you can do to improve the situation, it is worth understanding what causes sensitive teeth. In many cases it is due to problems with the teeth themselves, either in the form of compromised enamel or a small crack or chip that allows the cold to enter and access the nerve area within.

Enamel erosion is one of the most common causes of this problem and whilst it is possible for thinner tooth enamel to be hereditary, in most cases it is caused by diet and especially the consumption of highly acidic drinks. These, and other drinks that contain lemon for example due to its acidity, should be moderated. Brushing too hard and too soon after a meal when the enamel is softer can also lead to the enamel becoming worn down much quicker. Teeth grinding can also have this effect and if you find yourself doing this, please talk to your dentist about it.

Cracks and chips in teeth can be caused by accidents or neglect. Although you can’t always prevent accidents, making sure to maintain a good oral health regime can certainly help you to avoid this problem.

In some instances, gum erosion may also have exposed the less well protected part of the tooth. Your dentist will be able to offer advice about this.

See your dentist

So, if you are suffering from discomfort with tooth sensitivity, what should you do? In the first instance, you should have your teeth checked by a dentist. Any cracks or chips can be treated which will not only help to prevent this but also help to preserve the tooth. Where worn enamel is the cause, your dentist will be able to discuss options, such as porcelain teeth veneers which can be used to replace or protect the damaged enamel.

Other precautions to take

While seeing your dentist is the most important thing that you can do to minimise the discomfort caused by this and to keep your teeth healthy, there are a number of things which will help you to avoid the worst of the discomfort.

Avoid very hot or cold food or drink

One of the most obvious things that you can do is to avoid food or drink that is very hot or very cold, especially in extremes of weather. It doesn’t, of course, address the underlying issues and should only be used as a stop-gap solution until you have sought the advice of one of our Wickford clinical team.

Wrap a scarf around your mouth

For short journeys, wearing a scarf around the mouth will help to stop the cold air entering and coming into contact with your teeth. Again, this is a temporary mitigation and shouldn’t be used to mask the underlying causes of the problem.

Use a tooth sensitivity toothpaste

One of the solutions that many people find to help with this problem is to use a tooth sensitivity toothpaste. These work by blocking the signals to the nerves that cause the often sharp pain. There are many good and reliable brands on the market and your dentist may be able to recommend one for your own use.

The one thing that you shouldn’t do if you have sensitive teeth is to ignore the problem. Not only will this be uncomfortable for you but also ignores any underlying issues that could lead to further and more significant problems later on. As the cold weather starts to hit this country, if you notice an increase in sensitivity of your teeth, it is time to have this checked. You can make an appointment at the Cygnet Dental Practice by calling us today on 01268 733078.