How winter weather affects your smile
Do your teeth hurt when you drink a glass of ice water? Over time tooth enamel wears down and exposes a sensitive layer of your teeth. If it comes in contact with something too cold or too warm, you will feel pain. This can be caused by any number of things, but during the frigid months of winter, cold weather could be the cause. If you are experiencing pain when eating or drinking certain foods, contact your Noble Square dentist.
Cold Weather
Just like the frame of your home, your teeth expand and contract in response to extreme heat and cold. Over time, this leads to cracks that expose the core of your teeth, also known as the dentin. The dentin is covered in nerve fibers which is why when it is exposed to cold weather, your teeth begin to ache.
Your dentin could be exposed for a number of reasons, but the most popular causes are periodontal disease, vigorous brushing, grinding your teeth, tooth decay, tooth whitening agents, acidic beverages and other bad oral habits.
Treatments
If you’re experiencing tooth pain in the winter weather, here are some fixes recommended by your Noble Square dentist:
- Fluoride application: Fluoride occurs naturally, and a dentist can apply it to your teeth to strengthen your enamel.
- Covering dentin: Your dentist can apply a sealant to fix problems with receding gum lines.
- Mouth guard: If you grind your teeth, a mouth guard can help prevent you from damaging your teeth in your sleep.
- Root canal: If you have a cracked or chipped tooth or deep decay, a root canal is your best treatment option to remove the pulp.
You should visit your dentist whenever you experience tooth sensitivity since it can lead to more severe issues and is painful. Schedule an appointment today with one of our doctors at East Village Dental Centre.
