Have you ever noticed why your teeth hurt more in winter? If yes, you are not alone. There may be many culprits to blame for this hurt, including seasonal sickness, seasonal snacks, and cold weather. Even if you do not feel your teeth sensitive in normal weather, it can change quickly during winters.
In many cases, patients can follow home remedies to manage their teeth sensitivity issues. However, this might not always be the case. There may be some underlying cause that needs attention from your Burlington, Ontario family dentist. Below are the most common reasons why your teeth hurt during colder weather.
Why might your teeth hurt in winter?
Although there are various reasons, here are some of the common ones.
- Temperature fluctuation
A sudden drop in temperature can cause your teeth to become more sensitive or hurt. Even if you do not have sensitivity issues, you may face it during colder weather. You may notice it while speaking to someone outdoors or taking a deep breath through your mouth.
During cold weather, your teeth expand, and cracks may develop in the enamel. However, if not treated early, these cracks can further expand and cause more damage.
- Sugar treats.
As winter brings the holiday season, people often eat sweets and candies all day. Increased sugar intake means an increased risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and cavities, which causes your teeth to be more sensitive. Drink water after eating a sugary meal and avoid chewing hard substances to protect your teeth from chipping, which exposes your sensitive dentine.
- Low levels of Vitamin D.
One of the essential elements that keep your teeth strong and healthy is vitamin D. The Sun is the primary source of vitamin D. Since we spend most of our day in our homes during winter, we are less exposed to the sunlight.
Therefore, the levels of vitamin D in our body decrease, and this affects the tooth development process. To overcome the problem, include vitamin D-rich food items in your diet, such as mushrooms, egg yolks, salmon, etc.
- Receding gums.
When gums recede, they leave our tooth roots exposed. Unfortunately, our roots are hypersensitive to any outer stimuli. As the temperature decreases, it leads to sharp, intense pain. Receding gums can be a sign of periodontal disease. If you suspect any gum disease, it is recommended that you visit a dentist as soon as possible. Untreated gum issues can result in more severe health issues.
Remember, your dentist can help you in overcoming teeth sensitivity. Ensure to speak to one!
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