Why Are My Teeth Sensitive to Hot and Cold?

Transcendental Agency • Jun 26, 2023

Are you the type of person that can’t drink their coffee unless it scalds the roof of their mouth? Or, do you prefer your soda so cold it makes your teeth chatter? In either case, you’re not alone. In the US more than any other part of the world, ice-cold drinks are far preferable to room temperature. As for hot drinks? Over 60 percent of Americans drink coffee every day, according to the National Coffee Association.


The only problem? If you have
sensitive teeth, you’re balancing your delight with agony after each sip. Sensitive teeth can be more than just a hassle–they can affect your life enjoyment. Thankfully, teeth sensitivity can be treated by a Howell general dentist. You just have to trust them to figure out which of these common causes may be contributing to your symptoms.


Tooth Decay Can Cause Sensitive Teeth


In most cases, sensitivity is caused by the loss of enamel protecting the nerves in your teeth. When a cavity forms, the surface-level enamel has eroded, and the bone has decayed, exposing the sensitive nerves on the inside of your teeth. 


Without this outer layer of protection, so much as a splash of ice-cold water can be excruciating.


Gum Recession Also Exposes Sensitive Nerves


Enamel doesn’t cover your entire tooth. The part of your tooth protected by your gums is covered in a weaker protective substance called cementum. When the gums recede, more of the root of the tooth is exposed. This sensitivity can be even more extreme if the nerves are damaged.


How Teeth Get Nerve Damage


Your teeth are composed of several layers. Underneath the enamel is the outer layer of the tooth, the dentin. This protective layer shields the pulp of the tooth which is made of nerves and soft tissue. Simply exposing these nerves can cause pain and sensitivity, but if the nerves are damaged, you may experience more than just localized sensitivity to hot and cold.


Infection inside the tooth can damage the nerves, causing numbness, tingling, or widespread aching that doesn’t stop after a few hours.


Sensitive Teeth Can Be Hereditary


Even if you take good care of your teeth, you may be at higher risk for tooth decay and suffer more sensitive teeth than other people. If your parents or grandparents had teeth problems, then you may experience the same kinds of issues, according to research published by the
National Institute of Health (NIH).


How Can a Dentist Treat Sensitive Teeth?


The treatment for your sensitive teeth will depend on the cause. Your dentist will first need to assess your teeth and gum health. Then, they may offer treatments like:

  • Veneers. These custom porcelain covers are cemented onto your teeth with composite resin. They are a great option for people with sensitive teeth, as they provide another layer of protection against hot and cold.
  • Fillings. The best solution for tooth decay that exposes the pulp of your teeth to outside stimuli is to root out the decay and cover the hole with a filling. 
  • Fluoride treatments. Enamel is your first line of defense against hot and cold temperatures. If your enamel has degraded, it can be restored with fluoride treatments and regular use of fluoride toothpaste.


Your dentist may recommend these or additional treatments to manage your symptoms. Whatever the cause of your sensitive teeth, a professional can help.


Choose Sincere Smiles for Your Howell General Dentist


You don’t have to suffer through sensitive teeth forever. At Sincere Smiles, we can create a treatment plan that restores your teeth and gums and treats your symptoms at the same time. Whether it’s through fluoride treatments during your
checkups and cleanings or through implants and veneers, we want to help you find the solution you’ve been looking for.


To schedule an appointment, call 517-200-3691 today.


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