The cold of winter can present a challenge for those with sensitive teeth. If you're prone to tooth sensitivity, you can always steer clear of particularly hot or cold foods—but avoiding the weather is impossible. Below are four tips dentists often mention for dealing with the cold when your teeth are vulnerable.

How to Deal With Wintertime Tooth Sensitivity

1. Focus on Breathing Through the Nose

Cold air entering the mouth will irritate sensitive teeth, so try to breathe through your nose as much as you can. Winter colds and drier air can sometimes make this difficult, but using nasal sprays and Neti pots will help keep the nasal passageways clear and well-lubricated.

2. Cover Your Mouth When Outdoors

Everyone must spend at least a little time outdoors during the winter, even if it's just a walk from the car to the office or from the parking lot to the supermarket. Be sure to plan ahead for these outings and prevent cold air from getting in your mouth. Wear a scarf, ski mask, or coat with a hood that can be pulled tight—anything that will provide an extra layer across the mouth and teeth.

3. Enjoy Warm Beverages

Sipping a warm beverage can counteract the discomfort of tooth sensitivity. During the winter, keep a thermos on hand to give you ready access to a warm beverage for sensitivity relief.

For those who enjoy staining drinks like coffee or tea, make it a priority to brush—or at least rinse—thoroughly afterward so your teeth won't discolor and your smile won't dim.

4. Brush With Desensitizing Toothpaste

Desensitizing toothpaste works by blocking pain signals from the nerves in the teeth. There are several different brands and varieties on the market, so check with your dentist to find the one best suited to you.

 

When tooth sensitivity becomes unmanageable or interferes with your daily life, be sure to visit a dentist. Larry G. Hubbard, DDS, has been serving patients in the Statesboro, GA, area since 1978. He offers a variety of treatments and services, including preventive exams, same-day crowns, and dental implants for patients throughout Bulloch County. Call (912) 764-9891 to schedule an appointment with a dentist today. Visit his website to learn more about the practice.