A Calgary Dentist Explains Why Winter Makes Your Teeth Hurt — and What You Can Do About It
Winter in Calgary is beautiful, but for many people, it also brings an uncomfortable surprise: sharp, sudden tooth pain when breathing cold air or sipping a hot drink after coming in from outside.
As a dentist practicing in NE Calgary, I see a noticeable increase in patients complaining of cold-sensitive teeth during winter months. The good news is that this sensitivity is common, manageable, and often preventable once you understand what’s causing it.
In this blog, I’ll explain:
- Why teeth become more sensitive in winter
- What sensitivity really means for your oral health
- How to treat cold sensitivity at home
- When it’s time to see a dentist
- How we help patients manage tooth sensitivity at Jacksonport Dental
What Does Tooth Sensitivity Feel Like?
Tooth sensitivity usually presents as:
- A sudden, sharp pain when breathing cold air
- Discomfort when drinking hot tea or coffee after being outside
- Pain when eating ice cream or cold foods
- Sensitivity that fades quickly once the stimulus is removed
This type of pain is different from a constant toothache. It is typically short-lived but can significantly affect your daily comfort during Calgary’s long winter season.
Why Are Teeth More Sensitive in Winter?
1. Cold Air Causes Tooth Expansion and Contraction
In winter, Calgary temperatures can drop dramatically. When you breathe in cold air, your teeth slightly contract. When you return indoors, they warm up and expand again.
This repeated expansion and contraction can:
- Stress the enamel
- Expose microscopic cracks
- Irritate the inner nerve of the tooth
Over time, this leads to increased sensitivity.
2. Enamel Wear Exposes Dentin
Enamel is the protective outer layer of your teeth. When it wears down, the underlying layer called dentin becomes exposed.
Dentin contains tiny tubules that lead directly to the nerve of the tooth. Cold temperatures travel quickly through these tubules, triggering pain.
Common causes of enamel wear include:
- Aggressive brushing
- Acidic foods and drinks
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Acid reflux
- Natural aging
3. Gum Recession Exposes Sensitive Root Surfaces
Cold weather itself doesn’t cause gum recession, but the existing recession becomes more noticeable in winter.
When gums recede:
- Tooth roots become exposed
- Roots lack protective enamel
- Cold sensitivity increases significantly
Many patients in NE Calgary experience gum recession due to brushing habits or early gum disease.
4. Teeth Grinding Increases During Stressful Winter Months
Winter can increase stress levels due to:
- Shorter daylight hours
- Holiday responsibilities
- Work and family pressures
Stress often leads to nighttime teeth grinding, which wears down enamel and increases sensitivity.
Many patients are unaware they grind their teeth until sensitivity or jaw pain appears.
5. Existing Dental Issues Become More Noticeable
Cold sensitivity can sometimes be an early warning sign of:
- Cavities
- Cracked teeth
- Old or failing fillings
- Early gum disease
Winter doesn’t create these problems, but it often reveals them.
Is Winter Tooth Sensitivity Normal?
Occasional mild sensitivity can be normal, especially if you already have enamel wear or mild gum recession.
However, sensitivity is not something you should ignore, especially if:
- It is worsening
- It affects only one tooth
- It lingers after cold exposure
- It interferes with eating or drinking
These signs indicate a deeper dental issue that should be evaluated.
How to Treat Cold Tooth Sensitivity at Home
Use a Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
Desensitizing toothpaste helps block pain signals from reaching the nerve.
Tips:
- Use twice daily
- Do not rinse immediately after brushing
- Allow the toothpaste to sit on teeth briefly
Most patients notice improvement within 2–3 weeks.
Switch to a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Brushing harder does not clean better. In fact, it wears enamel faster.
I often advise patients to:
- Use a soft-bristled brush
- Brush gently using circular motions
- Avoid scrubbing back and forth aggressively
Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks
During winter, people often consume more:
- Citrus fruits
- Carbonated drinks
- Hot lemon water
- Sports and energy drinks
Acid weakens enamel and increases sensitivity. Rinse with water after consuming acidic foods instead of brushing immediately.
Protect Your Teeth from Cold Air
Covering your mouth with a scarf when outdoors can significantly reduce sensitivity by limiting cold air exposure.
This simple habit is especially helpful for patients who walk frequently in Calgary winters.
Manage Teeth Grinding
If you wake up with jaw soreness or headaches, you may be grinding your teeth.
A custom night guard can:
- Protect enamel
- Reduce sensitivity
- Prevent long-term tooth damage
Professional Treatments for Tooth Sensitivity
At Jacksonport Dental, we tailor treatment based on the cause of your sensitivity.
Professional Fluoride Treatments
Strengthen enamel and reduce nerve sensitivity.
Dental Bonding
Protects exposed dentin or roots with a tooth-colored resin.
Gum Care and Periodontal Treatment
Addresses gum recession and inflammation.
Filling or Crown Replacement
If old restorations are contributing to sensitivity.
Custom Night Guards
For patients with grinding-related enamel wear.
When Should You See a Dentist?
You should book a dental visit if:
- Sensitivity is persistent
- Pain occurs in one specific tooth
- Sensitivity is worsening
- You notice cracks, chips, or gum recession
- Home remedies are not helping
Early treatment often prevents more extensive and costly dental procedures.
How We Help Patients with Tooth Sensitivity at Jacksonport Dental
As a family dentist serving NE Calgary communities, my goal is not just to treat pain but to identify the root cause.
Every sensitivity assessment includes:
- A detailed dental exam
- X-rays if needed
- Bite evaluation
- Personalized home care guidance
We believe patients should understand why their teeth are sensitive, not just how to mask the pain.
Preventing Tooth Sensitivity in Future Winters
Long-term prevention includes:
- Regular dental cleanings
- Early treatment of enamel wear
- Proper brushing technique
- Managing grinding and stress
- Addressing gum recession early
Preventive care before winter begins is one of the best ways to avoid seasonal sensitivity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why do my teeth hurt more in winter?
Cold air and temperature changes trigger nerve responses in exposed dentin or weakened enamel.
Can tooth sensitivity go away on its own?
Mild sensitivity may improve, but persistent sensitivity usually indicates an underlying issue.
Is tooth sensitivity a sign of a cavity?
Sometimes. Sensitivity limited to one tooth should always be checked.
Are sensitive toothpastes safe long-term?
Yes, they are safe and often recommended for ongoing use.
Should I avoid cold foods in winter?
You don’t have to avoid them completely, but moderation helps reduce discomfort.
Final Thoughts from Dr. Richa Bhatnagar
Tooth sensitivity is your body’s way of telling you something needs attention. Winter simply makes that message louder.
If cold weather is affecting your comfort, don’t wait for it to worsen. With the right care and guidance, sensitive teeth can be effectively managed — and often completely resolved.
If you’re experiencing cold sensitivity this winter, we’re here to help.
Dr. Richa Bhatnagar
Jacksonport Dental
📍 124-3730, 104 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T3N 0T1
📞 403-815-3040
🌐 www.jacksonportdental.ca
