Ouch! Maybe it’s a dollop of ice cream or a fresh smoothie or even a sip of ice water— but there it is, excruciating tooth pain.
There are many reasons why people experience tooth sensitivity to cold. Luckily, several steps can be taken to cure this, including checking with the dentist.
Additional symptoms can accompany sensitivity to cold, including:
- Sensitivity to hot foods
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Continued dull or throbbing tooth pain
What conditions create tooth sensitivity?
Tooth Decay
Little cavities can become sensitive to cold food or drinks. Cavities are created in enamel and reveal the nerve inside the tooth to cold, heat, and other sources of discomfort.
While continuing to floss and brush to prevent cavities, see a dentist to identify and treat the condition. If the cavity is little, a dentist can extract the decayed area and fill the tooth. If it’s grave, a root canal to clean out the decay, disinfect the root and seal the tooth may be necessary.
Exposed Roots
Tooth enamel, the hardest material in the body, covers the tooth over the gum line. Though, the root of the tooth, the part usually covered by the gums, does not have this shielding layer. If brushing and floss are not regular or if the brush and floss are too vigorously the gums may retreat, exposing the roots of one or more of the teeth.
Sensitivity after Dental Work
Sometimes dental work can briefly cause the teeth to become sensitive to cold foods, from a couple of days to a week or longer if the dentist filled or a crown or filling.
In these cases, over the counter pain relievers, aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen can bring some relief. If the pain persists or worsens, contact the dentist.
How Can I Get Rid of Tooth Pain from cold sensitivity?
In general, tackle temporary tooth sensitivity to cold with the common elements of proper oral hygiene: brushing and flossing, as well as routine preventive care visits to the dentist. Think about using toothpaste purposely made for sensitive teeth or adding a fluoride mouth rinse to a daily schedule.
Nevertheless, if your sensitivity lingers, it could indicate that a more serious dental condition is present. The pulp—the interior of your teeth—could be damaged, either from long-term tooth decay or an injury. It’s essential to visit a dentist before it develops an infection that could put the tooth at risk.
Tooth Sensitivity to Cold Screams Attention!
If any concerns over increased or new tooth sensitivity to cold contact the dentist office immediately. Make an appointment and get the tooth checked out before it has a chance to turn into something more serious.