Winter weather can cause many issues, from increased bouts of illness to traffic delays. It can also impact your dental health by contributing to tooth sensitivity. Although the enamel is durable, it's also porous, which means cold air and liquids can penetrate it and cause discomfort. A dentist should assess all instances of tooth pain, but it also helps to understand the following reasons for sensitivity.

3 Reasons You Feel More Oral Pain in Cold Weather

1. Minor Enamel Damage

Tooth enamel can develop minor defects over time. For instance, people who regularly grind their teeth due to cold weather experience increased sensitivity, as the habit allows small cracks and chips to form.

Such defects provide access to the sensitive pulp, which contains nerve endings. If you're a chronic teeth-grinder, especially at night, a dentist can fit you with a custom mouth guard to prevent future damage. 

2. Lack of Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for oral health, ensuring more efficient calcium absorption to maintain strong teeth and bones. Exposure to sunlight helps the body create this nutrient, so levels are naturally lower during the colder months when you remain indoors. 

Along with a proper dental care routine, you can avoid tooth decay and pain by eating more vitamin D-rich foods during winter. Dairy products, egg yolks, salmon, and fortified cereals are all great sources of this nutrient. You can also take a dietary supplement to boost your intake.

3. Natural Sensitivity

Some people's smiles are naturally more sensitive than others, especially to temperature fluctuations. Teeth often contract after facing the cold winter air, which can cause cracks in the enamel. These breaks expose the underlying dentin and nerve fibers, leading to pain. 

People with sensitive teeth also experience discomfort when eating or drinking beverages at extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold. To eliminate the discomfort associated with natural sensitivity, switch to a desensitizing toothpaste. This product contains ingredients that stop pain signals from being sent to the brain and boosts the strength of enamel. 

Proudly serving families throughout Kenai, AK, James Julien, DDS, can get to the bottom of any pain or sensitivity issues you're experiencing. While this dentist emphasizes the importance of preventative care, their patients can also access essential restorative and cosmetic procedures. They also offer same-day appointments to address urgent issues like toothaches. Learn more about their services by visiting the website, or schedule an appointment today by calling (907) 283-4857.