Blog Highlights
- When the weather gets cold, the dentin under your enamel may expand and contract
- When the dentin is exposed, you will feel the cold more than usual
- Your dentist will identify the problem and determine the best course of treatment
Do your teeth feel sore or sensitive when the weather gets chilly? If your teeth are sensitive to the cold air, this may be an indication that something isn’t quite right.
When the weather gets cold, the dentin under your enamel may expand and contract in reaction to the chilly temperatures. If the dentin expands or contracts faster than the enamel, it can cause tiny crack to occur. These tiny cracks lead to sensitivity. These cracks are usually impossible to see and don’t often result in permanent damage, but they can make you uncomfortable. When the dentin is exposed, your teeth will be more sensitive to extreme temperatures.
If you return to warm temperatures, for example you go inside out of the cold, and your teeth are still sore, you may have a bigger issue. Additionally, if you experience pain when eating something cold, like ice cream, or drinking or eating something hot like coffee or soup, this is not normal and you should visit your dentist.
Teeth that are sensitive to more than just chilly weather can be caused by a number of things such as infected teeth or gums, a severely cracked tooth, periodontal disease, clenching or grinding your teeth, untreated cavities, and even some cancers.
If you notice that your teeth are unusually sensitive and you feel pain when they’re exposed to hot or cold temperatures, you should make an appointment to visit your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist will identify the problem and determine the best course of treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my teeth sensitive to cold weather?
Teeth sensitivity to cold weather can occur because the dentin under your enamel expands and contracts with temperature changes, causing tiny cracks that lead to sensitivity.
What should I do if my teeth hurt when eating or drinking hot or cold items?
If you experience pain when consuming hot or cold foods and drinks, you should visit your dentist to identify the cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Can teeth sensitivity indicate a serious dental problem?
Yes, sensitivity to more than just cold weather can be caused by issues such as infected teeth or gums, cracked teeth, periodontal disease, grinding, cavities, or other conditions that require dental care.
Will tiny cracks in my teeth cause permanent damage?
Tiny cracks caused by temperature changes usually do not result in permanent damage but can cause discomfort and sensitivity.
How can my dentist help with sensitive teeth?
Your dentist will diagnose the cause of your tooth sensitivity and recommend the best course of treatment to relieve discomfort and protect your teeth.
