The holidays are a merry time, filled with food and family. However, for many people, winter dental sensitivity can halt carefree smiles in their tracks. If your teeth have been hurting lately, the guide below explains some possible causes and how a dentist can help. 

Causes of Wintertime Dental Sensitivity

1. Cold Weather

The temperature changes outside impact all solid matter, including teeth. While dental enamel may expand slightly in the warmth of summer, the same tissue can contract during winter, aggravating the fine nerves inside your teeth. To relieve this thermal stress, wear scarves or facial covers when you are out and about in the cold. 

2. Holiday Eating 

The holidays are famous for their treats. However, when you consume sugary or starchy snacks, oral bacteria appears to feed off those food particles. The acids that form in the process can dissolve dental enamel, leaving your mouth vulnerable to cavities. If your teeth are sensitive, visit a dentist for a checkup to look for decay. 

3. Aggressive Brushing

Sometimes, people try to avoid holiday-related dental decay by brushing aggressively, when this solution can actually cause collateral damage like gum recession. Since gum tissue doesn’t grow back and dental roots aren’t covered by protective enamel, this can lead to sensitivity. Always brush your teeth gently and talk with your dentist about any symptoms you experience to make sure you aren’t causing irreversible damage.

If you have sensitive teeth, talk with Gregory E. Utecht, D.D.S as soon as possible. As a dentist with years of experience treating everything from tooth decay and undetected fractures to gum recession and oral pain, he can help you enjoy a more comfortable, beautiful smile. To find out more about his Lincoln, NE, practice, visit his website or give his office a call at (402) 477-3456 to schedule an appointment today.