Teeth Sensitivity to Cold? Here Are Causes and Treatments
Ice cream and smoothies are delicious ways to reward yourselves after a hard day at work. Eight percent of Americans have teeth sensitive to heat.
Sensitivity to hot or cold foods is a common dental issue; however, it may be caused by an underlying health condition or treatment, such as gum disease.
When cold air hits our teeth, it dries them out. Tooth sensitivity occurs when there is weak tooth enamel. It may be caused by one or more of these factors:
Untreated Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is caused because the amount of acid produced by bacteria in your mouth exceeds the amount of alkaline material present to neutralize them. Therefore, if your saliva contains too much sugar, you can develop dental problems such as cavities. Flossing helps remove plaque build-up around your teeth. Brushing your teeth every day removes food particles stuck under your gum line. Visit your dentist every six months for regular cleaning.
Brushing Aggressively and Using Toothpicks
While brushing and flossing are essential habits to maintain, your brushing technique must be the next crucial step. Aggressive brushing using a rough bristled toothbrush can scratch your teeth’s enamel, causing bacteria to break down your teeth and lead to sensitivity.
You shouldn’t use toothpicks often because they may cause damage to your teeth. Flossing is recommended by dental professionals because it doesn’t scratch the surface of your teeth and won’t hurt their enamel.
Bruxism or Teeth Grinding
Bruxism is one way we respond emotionally to stress. Most people grit their teeth occasionally, but others suffer from bruxism, where they grind their teeth for long periods.
If you clench or grind your teeth, they become exposed and wear down, causing teeth sensitivity.
Cracked or Chipped Tooth
An injury can cause cracked or chapped areas in the mouth. If these areas are damaged, bacteria may enter and cause infection. You should also avoid biting down hard, as injuries to the mouth and teeth can increase sensitivity.
Exposed Tooth Root
The tooth root is found under the gum line, just below the mouth’s surface. It contains the nerves and blood vessels and helps protect the tooth. In cases of severe injury or gum recession, the tooth root may become exposed. This condition causes tooth sensitivity.
Teeth grinding, gum recession, and cigarette smoking are the leading causes of exposed root surfaces.
Post-Treatment Sensitivity
Hydrogen peroxide is highly effective at cleaning up stains, but it can cause sensitivity for a few days afterward. Whitening products contain chemicals that remove some of the minerals from your tooth enamel, leaving them more vulnerable.
However, drinking fluoridated water and eating foods and drinks containing fluoride can help replenish the fluoride in your tooth enamel.
How Petinge Dental Care Can Help
If you’re suffering from tooth sensitivity, our team offers dental treatments that can help alleviate the pain. We provide:
- Tooth fillings
- Fluoride treatments
- Dental bonding
- Toothpaste for sensitive teeth
Schedule an appointment today to improve your oral hygiene by visiting our office for a cleaning and checkup. It’s not just about having a healthy mouth; it’s also about eating delicious foods and drinking tasty beverages.