Why Are My Teeth Sensitive to Cold?
Does a sip of ice water or a brisk October morning make you wince? When teeth are sensitive to cold, it usually means something has exposed the softer layer under your enamel.
The good news is that preventive dental care can often catch the cause early. Dr. Olszewski, our Grand Rapids, MI dentist, can look at the tooth and recommend a fix that fits your smile.
Here's a closer look at the common causes and the treatments that help.
Why Cold Hurts in the First Place
Under your enamel is a layer called dentin, which is full of tiny tubules that lead to the nerve. According to the American Dental Association, when dentin loses its protective covering, these inside the tooth.
That quick, sharp zing is the nerve reacting. The real question is what wore the covering away.
Worn Enamel
Enamel can thin over time. The Cleveland Clinic notes that or using a hard toothbrush can wear it down, and so can acidic foods like citrus, tomatoes, pickles and tea.
A soft brush, gentle pressure and the habits on this cavity prevention checklist help protect the enamel you have.
Gum Recession
When gums pull back, they reveal the root surface of the tooth. Roots don't have enamel, so they tend to react to cold even faster than the rest of the tooth.
Brushing too hard and gum disease can both play a role. Catching recession early gives you more options.
Cavities and Cracked Teeth
Sometimes sensitivity points to a bigger problem. A cavity or a small crack can let cold, and bacteria, reach the inside of the tooth.
If the sensitivity stays in one tooth, or it hurts when you bite down, it's worth having that tooth checked soon.
Recent Dental Work or Whitening
Fillings, cleanings and other treatments can cause short-term sensitivity while the tooth settles down. Whitening can do it too.
The ADA explains that the peroxide in the nerve, but in most cases this sensitivity is temporary.
Treatments That Can Help
The right treatment depends on what's causing the sensitivity. At home, a desensitizing toothpaste may take the edge off after several uses.
At our office, Dr. Olszewski may suggest cosmetic bonding to cover an exposed area. You can read more about how dental bonding works and why the composite resin can last up to 10 years.
A tooth with a large cavity, crack or significant enamel loss may need a dental crown. For severe sensitivity that doesn't improve with other treatments, a root canal may be the best way to save the tooth.
Keep Up With Routine Cleanings
Regular visits let us spot worn enamel, receding gums and early cavities before they turn into sensitive spots. We recommend teeth cleanings and exams at least every six months.
Curious about the visit itself? Here's what to expect during a cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for teeth to feel sensitive after a filling or cleaning?
Yes, a little sensitivity after a filling or cleaning is common and usually short-term. It often fades on its own as the tooth settles over the next several days.
The Cleveland Clinic notes that pain that is sharp or doesn't go away could signal a more serious issue. If that happens after a visit, call our office so we can take a look.
Should I stop whitening if my teeth feel sensitive?
You can pause whitening and try again later once your teeth feel normal. Whitening sensitivity happens when peroxide reaches the dentin, and in most cases it goes away after you stop.
If your teeth were already sensitive before you started, ask Dr. Olszewski first. He can check for worn enamel or receding gums that could make whitening uncomfortable.
Does toothpaste for sensitive teeth really work?
Desensitizing toothpaste can help many people, but it isn't instant. It usually takes several applications before the sensitivity starts to ease.
The American Dental Association says these toothpastes contain compounds that help reduce sensitivity. If a few weeks of regular use don't help, the cause may need treatment in the dental chair instead.
How often should I see the dentist if my teeth are sensitive?
Most patients should have a cleaning and exam at least every six months. Dr. Olszewski may recommend more frequent visits if you have a chronic condition like gum disease.
A cleaning at Always A Smile in Grand Rapids takes less than an hour. You can also ask about adding an optional fluoride treatment, which helps strengthen enamel.
When is cold sensitivity a sign of something serious?
Cold sensitivity is more concerning when the pain lingers, keeps getting worse or centers on one tooth. Severe pain when chewing or drinking can point to an infected tooth.
Swollen, sensitive or pimpled gums near a tooth are another warning sign. If you notice any of these, call our office so we can see you as soon as possible.
Get Relief From Sensitive Teeth
You don't have to put up with that wince every time you reach for a cold drink. Call Always A Smile today at (616) 949-1700 or request an appointment online.
We're happy to find the cause and help you feel comfortable again at our family dental practice in Grand Rapids, MI.