What Causes Teeth to be Sensitive to Cold?

Have you ever had a sharp, stinging sensation when you bite into ice cream or sip an icy beverage on a hot day? This sensation can radiate across your head, causing a ‘brain freeze’

The main culprit, tooth sensitivity, may occur as a dental discomfort or a sign of a more serious issue. This happens when a tooth’s outer protective layer–the enamel–starts to thin and wear down. Loss of enamel exposes the sensitive dentin of the tooth (or nerves) which reacts to heat and cold. Some common causes include:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Gum disease
• Acidic foods
• Tobacco products
• Forceful brushing
• Alcohol-based mouthwashes

Another reason for teeth sensitivity can be the cementum–the layer covering the roots–being exposed due to receding gums, further increasing teeth sensitivity. A chipped tooth is most likely to cause this.

If you are frequently experiencing heat and cold discomfort when eating and drinking, a chronic underlying condition may be the issue. In this case, talk to a professional to get proper diagnosis and treatment.

Home remedies to ease discomfort

Practising these tips at home can help ease discomfort caused by teeth sensitivity.

• Rinse with salt water
• Rinse with honey and warm water
• Rub gently with turmeric

Keep in mind that these methods may not be able to address them permanently. Consulting with a dentist to determine a proper treatment plan may be a better option to address any underlying dental issues.

Diet and lifestyle changes

Changing your daily habits can be effective in preventing further damage to your enamel layer and dentin.

• Avoid foods and drinks that are acidic such as soft drinks, citrus fruits, pickles, and wine as they tend to wear down tooth enamel.
• Elevate your dental care routine. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and brush gently in a circular motion. Apart from that, opt for safe fluoride-based toothpaste such as Oradex Periodontal Toothpaste, Oradex Antibacterial Toothpaste, Oradex Antioxidant Toothpaste, or Oradex Charcoal Green Tea Toothpaste, all of which help strengthen your teeth. Oradex Charcoal Green Tea Toothpaste additionally contains xylitol and hydroxyapatite, which together with fluoride, employs a three-in-one method for reducing tooth erosion while actively remineralising its enamel.

A number of reasons can cause tooth sensitivity. Whether they may be from poor oral care, injury, or a disease, these practices and remedies can provide short-term relief for pain and discomfort.

References:
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity to Heat and Cold — and How to Treat It | Healthline