As the cold snap arrives in Hull, many are preparing for icy commutes and frosty mornings. But experts at Yorkshire Dental Suite are warning the cold weather could also be affecting something you may not expect: your teeth.
Principal Dentist at Yorkshire Dental Suite, Dr Abdul Dalghous, explains that chilly weather can trigger changes in your mouth, even if you haven’t noticed them before. Here are five things to look out for:
1. Sudden sensitivity when outside in the cold
If you feel a sharp, almost electric twinge in your teeth when you breathe in icy air, it may be a sign that your enamel is under strain. Sudden cold exposure can make teeth contract quickly, irritating the nerves inside the tooth. This can be more present if you already experience mild sensitivity.
2. Aching in your upper teeth when you’re congested
The cold weather can slightly weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses such as colds. It’s very common for sinus pressure to feel like a toothache. This is due to your sinuses swelling and pressing on the roots of your upper teeth, often creating a dull, aching sensation. Many people mistake this for dental pain when the real culprit is winter congestion.
3. A dry, sticky mouth
Cold air tends to be less humid and breathing it in through your mouth can lead to a drier mouth than usual. Saliva acts as your mouth’s natural deference system so, when levels drop, your teeth become more vulnerable to sensitivity, plaque build-up and decay.
4. Pain when eating or drinking cold foods
Cold, winter weather can amplify discomfort caused by ice-cold foods and drinks. If a sip or bite of a chilled snack causes pain that lingers, it could point to underlying issues such as enamel erosion, cavities or exposed dentine that are becoming more noticeable in colder weather.
5. Small cracks or chips becoming more noticeable
Teeth naturally expand and contract with temperature changes and in winter this can be more extreme. Over time, this stress can create tiny hairline cracks in the enamel. You might not see them, but you might feel rough patches, sensitivity in one area, or even notice minor chips that weren’t there before.
Dr Abdul adds: “To help ease these changes, we recommend breathing through your nose where possible and avoid biting into cold foods. When it comes to your oral hygiene ensure you’re brushing twice a day using toothpaste designed for sensitivity and flossing. Following these will help your teeth during this cold weather!”