What Causes Tooth Sensitivity to Cold?

Tooth sensitivity to cold is often the result of inflammation or irritation of a tooth's nerves. Poor dental hygiene, oral diseases, or recent dental work can result in exposure of the tooth's root and nerves to various types of stimuli. Consuming cold foods or beverages under these circumstances can result in considerable discomfort for the individual experiencing tooth sensitivity to cold.

For many people, tooth sensitivity to cold is the result of exposure of the root or tooth pulp due to receding gums, cavities, or thin enamel. Receding gums is often the result of the failure to properly keep the teeth clean, which results in the buildup of tartar along the gum line. As a result, cold foods and beverages can seep into the space between gum and tooth. This exposes the root and nerves to cold, causing toothache. Paradoxically, vigorous brushing, often in a misguided attempt to prevent gum disease or cavities, can also contribute to tooth sensitivity to cold, as it damages the gums and tooth enamel.

Certain types of dental treatments and care can create a temporary tooth sensitivity to cold, though this is usually temporary and easily treated. For example, dental cleaning, scaling, and other treatments can result in a hypersensitive tooth. Cosmetic dental procedures, such as tooth whitening, can also increase tooth temperature sensitivity. Use of some types of mouthwashes, whitening toothpastes, and hard-bristled toothbrushes can also cause tooth discomfort, as may too vigorous flossing and brushing of the teeth. For this reason, dental professionals typically recommend that people use soft toothbrushes, do not brush too hard or too vigorously, and use care when flossing their teeth.

Since dental sensitivity can be the result of a serious condition, such as a crack in the tooth or gum disease, it is a good idea for sufferers to talk to their dentist or dental hygienist about the discomfort they experience. The dentist or hygienist can run a quick test by spraying cold air on the affected teeth. The patient can then indicate at which point he feels the most pain, which can give the dentist or hygienist an idea of where a crack or gap may be located. Once the source of the discomfort is identified, appropriate action can be taken. This may include the use of desensitizing creams and toothpastes to help minimize discomfort, as well as treatment for the cause of the problem, such as a thorough scaling of tartar; treatment for inflamed gums; or repair of dental enamel, cracks, or cavities.