Why do we get toothache in the winter? Tips to get rid of it
ArabiaWeather - The problem of tooth sensitivity to cold increases, and affects an increasing number of people in the winter. Feeling severe pain in the teeth when exposed to a cold stimulus is considered an annoying phenomenon, but the recurrence of this nuisance can be avoided if you know how to treat it correctly, and perhaps the solution to this problem It lies in understanding why tooth sensitivity to cold occurs. Hence finding a suitable solution.
You may be aware of the effect of cold foods and drinks on tooth sensitivity. However, some people, especially in the winter when temperatures are low, suffer from an exacerbation of this sensation, which is characterized by sensitivity to cold.
If you would like to know how the cold affects the health of our teeth, we will explain to you everything you need to know about tooth sensitivity to cold, and we will give you some simple recommendations to overcome this problem.
What is tooth sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, is an experience of acute pain that arises as a result of stimulation of the dentin. When the dentin reacts to an external stimulus, a momentary, intense tingling sensation, much like the sensation of needles, results.
Dentin is considered the second hardest tissue in the human body, which is found after the layer of tooth enamel that protects it. If the enamel is damaged or lost, stimuli from the outside pass through a narrow network of small channels in the dentin, which connect directly to the nerve endings in the tooth pulp, causing pain in individuals.
Why do we get toothache in winter?
Gum disease
Gum diseases are considered a major cause of damage to the dentin layer, causing increased tooth sensitivity. These diseases include gum infections, which negatively affect the condition of the teeth significantly.
Use the brush vigorously
In their quest to improve cleaning results, some people adopt certain habits, including using excessive force while brushing their teeth. Although they believe that this promotes the effective removal of stains and impurities, the result may be erosion and weakening of tooth enamel, causing severe sensitivity when exposed to air. The cold.
Teeth grinding
Some individuals apply pressure to their teeth during sleep, which is known as “grinding” or grinding . This weakens the tooth enamel and increases the chances of tooth sensitivity.
tooth decay
Tooth sensitivity when exposed to cold air is a sign that indicates the presence of tooth decay. Therefore, it is best to consult a doctor if you feel severe pain in cold weather conditions.
Acidic drinks
Drinks with a high percentage of acids, such as soft drinks, coffee and tea, erode the surface of the teeth, causing increased sensitivity and toothache.
Wrong daily habits
Poor daily habits, such as using tobacco products or not brushing teeth properly, play a role in gum problems; Which causes tooth sensitivity, especially when exposed to cold.
Do temperatures affect teeth?
As we mentioned previously, dentin is considered a tissue that is highly sensitive to temperature changes. This tissue is characterized by many small channels that extend directly into the tooth, allowing external stimuli to enter, and leading to an increase in sensitivity in the nerve.
In addition to the momentary inconvenience resulting from tooth sensitivity when exposed to external stimuli, failure to treat this problem effectively can cause increased damage to the tissues over time.
As a result of extreme thermal changes, such as constant exposure to cold and heat, the internal tissues of the teeth expand and contract. This repeated expansion and contraction can cause small cracks in the enamel and dentin, which gradually accelerates and worsens the condition.
Effective ways to relieve toothache in the winter
- Breathe through the nose
It is preferable to breathe through the nose when leaving the house as much as possible, as this helps avoid direct contact of cold air with the teeth when breathing through the mouth, and this reduces the possibility of thermal changes occurring that cause tooth pain.
- Drink hot drinks
Drinking hot beverages, especially in cold air, can help warm teeth and relieve pain caused by cold effects.
- Use mouthwash that contains fluoride
It is recommended to use mouthwash that contains fluoride two to three times a day, as fluoride contributes to reducing tooth sensitivity and strengthening them.
- Use toothpaste designed for sensitivity
Toothpaste designed to reduce tooth sensitivity can be used, as this strengthens the teeth and relieves pain.
Read also:
If you don't brush your teeth at night...you should fear for your heart
Hot or cold drinks... Who keeps you warm in the winter?
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