How Winter Affects Toothaches and Sensitivity

Do hot and cold temperatures bother you? If either one gives you tooth problems, then it might be time to look into tooth sensitivity. This is a very treatable condition that affects a large percentage of people, and you can get more information on it at your family dental center in Houston, TX. Believe it or not, the cold air can bring about tooth pain and sensitivity. Learn more about how the winter season can affect your teeth.

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity

When you get family dental care in Houston, TX, your dentists can usually show you illustrations or models of your teeth to help you understand their makeup, but you can get a pretty good idea even without those pictures. The main part that you need to consider is the enamel. That’s the outermost layer of your teeth. It’s the hardest and most mineralized tissue in your body. As it wears down, it exposes the dentin, or core of your teeth, below. The dentin is made up of a collection of microscopic tubes, and when these tubes are exposed to intense cold air this stimulates their cells and causes you pain.

Underlying Causes for Seasonal Sensitivity

There are a lot of reasons that your enamel could be wearing down, and your family dentist in Houston, TX, can help you narrow down which ones could be affecting you. The reason why your teeth hurts during winter is because the roots of your teeth have become exposed due to receding gum or gum disease.

Your enamel might also be wearing down because of some of your own habits. For instance, you might find yourself with sensitive teeth if you don’t brush enough, or if you brush too vigorously. Acidic beverages like soda, tea, coffee, and some juices can also wear down your enamel. So can other substances your teeth might be exposed to, like tobacco or whitening strips. Your enamel could even be breaking down if you clench or grind your teeth a lot.

Solutions for Seasonal Sensitivity

The solution for your tooth sensitivity partly depends on the cause. For instance, if you grind your teeth, you may need to visit your family dental center in Houston, TX, to get a mouth guard. After you’ve addressed the cause, you can work on treating the pain. For deep damage, you may need a root canal to remove the problem. On the other hand, you may just need to seal the area around your gums or strengthen your enamel with a fluoride application. If you want to find out what’s making your teeth hurt and what you can do to stop the pain, contact Made Ya Smile today.