Sensitive to Cold Air? Don't Panic! Understanding Causes and Remedies

If your teeth are suddenly sensitive to cold air, you are likely wondering what has caused it, and if you should be concerned. If you find yourself in this boat, it is important to know a few key things.

If this is you, then this article will explain why you are likely feeling sensitivity to cold air, when you should worry, and what you can do to ease the discomfort. Read on to learn more about: 

• Understanding the composition of your teeth 
• What causes dental sensitivity to cold air 
• Home remedies for sensitive teeth 
• When to see a dentist 
• Preventing sensitivity 

Let's get into it!

Understanding Your Teeth 

In order to understand why your teeth are suddenly sensitive to cold air, it is first important to understand the structure of your teeth. 

Your teeth are made up of numerous layers. The outermost layer, called the enamel, is a strong layer which protects the underlying tooth. It is made up of extremely hard minerals, and is responsible for the whiteness of our teeth. 

Under the enamel lies the dentin. This layer is softer, and more sensitive, due to the fact it contains many small nerves. These nerves transmit pain in response to hot/cold temperatures, damage and acids.

The innermost layer of the tooth is called the pulp. The pulp contains the main blood vessels and nerves which supply the rest of our tooth. 

What Causes Teeth Sensitivity to Cold Air?

If your teeth are sensitive to cold air, you are likely wondering what has caused this. There are many causes of sensitivity, ranging from lifestyle factors, to dental damage and gum recession. 

Receding Gums

Gum recession results in the gum being pulled away from the tooth. This exposes the tooth’s dentin, as well as the underlying root which conatins many nerves. When exposed to cold air, these nerves transmit pain signals to the brain. 

Gum recession, as well as other gum diseases can result in tooth sensitivity to cold, including an increased sensitivity to cold air, especially at the more advanced stages of the disease. 

Some causes of gum disease include plaque build up around the gums, bacterial infections, and overly excessive and aggressive brushing resulting in gum inflammation and damage. 

Enamel erosion

Enamel erosion occurs when there has been damage to the enamel. Acidic and sugary food and drinks are one of the main culprits when it comes to enamel erosion. 

Acids weaken the enamel, and demineralizes teeth, whilst sweet foods feed the acidic-producing bacteria in your teeth. Together, these dietary factors contribute to tooth sensitivity, including pain in response to cold aid exposure. 

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can cause damage to the enamel which exposes the underlying tooth, making our teeth more sensitive to factors such as cold air. 

Many people who clench their teeth often are unaware that they are doing so, until they experience tension headaches and sore jaws. Many people also often clench their jaw or grind their teeth while they sleep, or are stressed at night. This puts stress on the enamel and can result in micro fractures which leave teeth much more sensitive to the cold. 

Cracked Teeth

Cracked teeth can occur from accidents involving force to the head and face, or from smaller events such as biting down on a hard seed, or grinding your teeth. 

Whilst some of these smaller cracks may seem trivial, and may even be hard to see with the naked eye, they can expose the underlying dentin which makes your teeth extremely sensitive to the cold air. 

Harsh Brushing

One of the most common, and yet overlooked causes of teeth that are sensitive to cold air is harsh brushing. 

Brushing with a firm bristles toothbrush for many months, or brushing too vigorously, can result in wear down of the enamel. Once the enamel has been worn down, the underlying dentin is left exposed. 

The dentin is very sensitive to cold air, and can result in tooth pain in response to cold. It is best to use gentle sweeping motions when brushing your teeth, and to invest in a high quality soft-medium bristles brush. 

Over Whitening 

Unfortunately, over whitening can cause tooth sensitivity to cold air. 

Whitening products often use chemicals which remove the outer layer of enamel which is stained. However, some whitening products contain chemicals such as peroxides which, when overused, can cause damage to the enamel, resulting in sensitivity. 

Home Remedies for Sensitive Teeth

If your teeth are suddenly sensitive to cold air, there are some easy things you can do at home, to try and relieve the pain. 

Saltwater Rinse

Salt water rinses are an old time remedy for tooth sensitivity. 

Rinsing your mouth with mild saltwater once a day can help reduce inflammation which contributes to dental sensitivity. The saltwater acts as a natural disinfectant and helps to reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth, which can contribute to plaque buildup and further sensitivity.

Saltwater rinses eliminate a wide variety of microorganisms by removing water from the germs through osmosis. According to Dr. Anjum Chaudhary, BDS, MDS, an endodontist, saltwater rinses can improve dental health and cleanliness and are typically less expensive.

Sensitive Toothpaste 

Toothpaste which has been designed to help people who have sensitive teeth is a great way to promptly get relief, and help your enamel recover. 

Sensitive toothpaste can contain desensitizing agents which help to stop the nerves from transmitting pain signals. Whilst other toothpaste, like Boka’s h-Na toothpaste contains N-ha that has scientifically been proven to help remineralization teeth, which helps to avoid tooth sensitivity.

Soft-bristled Toothbrush

If you are someone who uses firm toothbrushes, and we all know someone who does, it may be time to switch to a gentler toothbrush. 

Soft to medium bristles toothbrushes do a great job at cleaning away plaque, whilst protecting the underlying enamel. Whereas firm toothbrushes are often too abrasive and cause damage to the enamel after repeated use. 

Diet Modifications

One of the best things you can do for your enamel, whether you experience sensitivity or not, is to avoid acidic and sweet foods. 

Instead, try incorporating leafy green vegetables, and dairy products which contain minerals to help support your enamel’s health. 

When to See a Dentist

Suddenly experiencing tooth sensitivity to cold air can be disconcerting. Whilst there are many explanations for tooth sensitivity that are not serious, it is important to know that it may be a sign of something more serious, and to know what to ask for help. 

Persistent Sensitivity

If tooth sensitivity is not cured by the above home remedies, and it persists for more than a week or two, then it may be time to see a dentist.

A dentist can check and make sure there is no damage to your teeth that you yourself cannot see, which is causing the sensitivity. They will also be able to prescribe you with certain medications if needed, and provide you with advice to help manage the discomfort. 

Signs of Tooth Decay or Damage

If you have pain without exposure to cold air, or consuming any food or beverages, it is likely that there is something going on, which warrants a visit to the dentist. 

If you see discoloration, holes, or chips in your teeth, then you should see a dentist. 

Additionally, if you have had an accident involving your head area, and are experiencing this kind of sensitivity, then it may be a sign of damage that you are not aware of. 

Gum Disease

If you have noticed that your teeth are suddenly sensitive to cold air, and you have noticed changes in your gums, it may be a symptom of a gum disease that requires a dentist's attention. 

If you have noticed that your gums are swollen, pale, red, or bleeding, then you should book in to see a dentist.

Signs of Infection 

Dental infections can cause tooth pain and sensitivity, and require dental care. Symptoms of infection include:

• Severe toothache 
• Persistent bad breath, or a bad taste in the mouth 
• Pus anywhere in the mouth 
• Fevers and chills
• Low energy
• Swelling and redness in the gums and around teeth 
• Swelling in the face around the jaw area 
• Loose teeth 
• Swelling in the lymph nodes 

Preventing Sensitive Teeth

Prevention is always easier than cure. This remains true for tooth sensitivity. If you have recently suffered from dental sensitivity to cold wind, then it is important to know how to avoid it coming back. 

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good, regular hygiene practices is important to ensuring your teeth’s health, and making sure you do not suffer from recurrent dental sensitivity. 

• Brushing twice a day: Use a soft bristles toothbrush to gently clean your teeth twice a day. Ensure you wait a little bit after eating food to brush your teeth, and never brush right after vomiting. 
• Flossing daily: Make sure to floss using waxed dental floss, which helps to remove the plaque between your teeth that a toothbrush alone cannot reach. Dentists often recommend flossing before brushing your teeth. 

Avoid Grinding/Clenching

Clenching your teeth is a bad habit that we often fall into when stressed. Whilst easier said than done, it is important to try to manage stress in order to ease the pressure we put on our enamel. 

Asking your dentist for a mouth guard that you can wear overnight is a great way to protect your teeth against sensitivity if you grind your teeth at night. 

Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks Enjoy as treats in moderation

Whilst acidic and sweet foods appeal to the best of us, it is important to enjoy them in moderation. 

If you do treat yourself to a dessert here and there, make sure to drink plenty of water afterward, as this will help to neutralize the acids. 

Regular Dental Checkups to Catch Issues Early

Unfortunately, many of us are guilty of neglecting dental appointments. It is important to regularly visit the dentist in order to identify any potential issues early. The earlier these issues are caught, the easier and faster they can be treated, before they get any worse. 

It is recommended to see the dentist once to twice yearly.