Cold Weather & Your Teeth
How the cold affects sensitivity.
As we see the first frosts of winter coming in, our bodies can certainly feel the difference in temperature and cosy scarfs and hats, big jumpers and winter coats become the uniform of the season.
At this time of year, you might not be aware of all the changes the colder weather has on your body, in particular, your teeth.
Your teeth are extremely strong, but as strong as they are, they aren’t immune to dips or highs in temperature. That is because your teeth are slightly porous and full of nerves, making them potentially sensitive. Teeth are able to work normally through the standard fluctuations in your bodily temperatures, but you may feel pain, irritation or discomfort if they experience hot or cold temperatures more extreme than your usual bodily temperature changes.
More Than Food & Drink
Food and drink which is hot or cold can produce pain or discomfort in your teeth, as can the cold air you breath in when you are outside in winter. Cold air can reach the more sensitive parts of the mouth, particularly the tooth sections around the gum line. Any tiny cracks in the teeth that cannot necessarily be seen, may certainly be felt when the weather gets cold again!
The jaw is also prone to more wear and tear during this season as the jaw is clenched when we feel our bodies are cold, causing more stresses and strains. This can also be transmitted through to the teeth when we get really cold.
Is The Problem The Cold Weather Or Something More Significant?
One really easy way to avoid your teeth hurting outside in winter is avoid breathing through your mouth as much as you can. If the pain continues when you are inside and warm, it is possible you have other issues with your teeth and we recommend a visit to Abbey Road Dental to get checked out.
If the cold seems to be having more of an effect on your teeth than you feel is manageable, it might be that there are deeper dental issues such as fillings that need replacing, crowns or bridges with erosion, cracked teeth, receding gums, issues with the bite or bruxism.
Any exposed tooth roots are likely to produce discomfort or pain because they are packed full of nerves. Tooth roots may be exposed through using the wrong toothbrush, brushing too hard, or gum disease causing the gums to recede.
Battling Winter Tooth Issues With Abbey Road Dental
Maintaining your oral hygiene routine throughout winter is essential and getting advice on improving that routine when you visit our NW8 clinic is a good idea, just in case there are additional ways to reduce any sensitivity. It is also important to visit your dentist if the way your teeth feel in the cold is too much to bear, or if you have signs something else is going on. Regular checkups at our NW8 clinic will ensure we can check your teeth for issues causing sensitivity in the cold, and treat those issues as efficiently and quickly as possible.
If you need to register with us or book your checkup, please call us on 02076241603 and one of our friendly team will be happy to help you.