“Why are my teeth sensitive to cold?”
As a hygienist, I hear this comment daily. There could be several reasons why someone’s teeth are sensitive to cold.
Gum recession with root exposure is the reason I see the most. When the gum tissue (gingiva as we call it in the dental office) receeds, it actually looses attachment to the crown of the tooth and exposes the root surface.
Aggressive toothbrushing. (yes that’s right, you can over brush your teeth)
I also suggest using an electric toothbrush. They are less likely to cause damage to the delicate gum tissue. There are many on the market that are good. I also like the 2 min. timer.
Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching) A bite splint worn at night may help prevent damage to the enamel of the teeth. An over-the-counter splint is better than nothing, but a bite guard made specifically for your mouth by your dentist is the best option.
Genetics (what your Mom and Pop gave you) Some people are more prone to gum recession than others for inherited reasons. (one example, the lip attaches via a muscle attachment that in some people attaches higher on the gum tissue. After years of use, the pulling of the lip can cause the tissue to recess causing exposed root surfaces.
Age (years of use) Unfortunately, as we age, so does our dentition.
The above are some reasons why your teeth could be sensitive.
Cold sensitivity is the most common occurance from root exposure. When the tissue exposes dentin (or root surfaces) they have microscopic tubule openings that transmit a shock-like twinge of pain to the nerve of the tooth.
Below is a image of dentin under a microscope. The openings of the tubules are visible.
The best defense for cold sensitivity caused from exposed dentin is Fluoride. The ions in fluoride can close or constrict the tubule openings with continued daily use. Sensitive toothpast used daily for a couple weeks helps
Below is another microscopic picture of dentin after the use of a fluoride toothpaste made for prevention of senstive teeth. Notice how much smaller the tubule openings are?
I always suggest patients use the sensitive toothpaste at night before bed. You don’t want to eat or drink after using it for at least 30 minutes so the fluoride ions have time to adhear to the dentin and provide a layer of protection.
I suggest not to rinse with water after brushing, just expectorate or spit.
I also suggest that if one area it particularly sensitive, to try rubbing some paste with their finger along the area and going to sleep.
If the sensitivity does not go away, or if it gets worse, I suggest seeing a dentist.
Hot sensitivity that lingers, a dull ache, any ache that causes you to take a pain medication should cause you to call your dentist and have it further evaluated.
One last thing I want to mention,
it helps your dentist diagnose if you can tell your dentist what sets off the sensitivity.
If you are suffuring from a sinus infection and only your upper teeth are sensitive, that is important to tell your dentist.
If it only hurts when you bite into an ice cream cone or drink something really cold but warm liquids or food are no problem, then that also helps your dentist fix the problem.
Tags:cold sensitivity exposed dentin gum recession root sensitivity Sensitive Teeth sensitive toothpaste