Why Is My Tooth Sensitive to Cold? Causes & Treatments Explained

Dr. Richa Bhatnagar, Jacksonport Dental – NE Calgary

Have you ever taken a sip of ice-cold water or enjoyed a scoop of ice cream only to feel a sharp pain shoot through your tooth? You’re not alone—tooth sensitivity to cold is one of the most common dental concerns patients share with me at Jacksonport Dental. The good news? It’s often treatable once we know the cause.

In this article, I’ll walk you through the main reasons why your tooth might be sensitive to cold and what treatments can help bring you lasting relief.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity to Cold?

Tooth sensitivity usually happens when the protective enamel layer is weakened, exposing the dentin underneath. Dentin contains tiny nerve pathways that react when they come in contact with cold, heat, or even sweet foods.

Here are the most common causes:

1. Worn Enamel Over time, enamel can wear down due to brushing too hard, acidic foods, or grinding your teeth (bruxism).Once enamel things, cold sensations reach the inner layers faster.
2. Receding Gums Gum recession exposes the roots of your teeth, which don’t have protective enamel. This makes them highly sensitive to temperature changes.
3. Tooth Decay (Cavities) Cavities allow cold stimuli to reach the nerves inside your tooth. Even small cavities can trigger sharp discomfort.
4. Cracked or Chipped Teeth Tiny cracks in a tooth can expose dentin and nerves, causing pain when you eat or drink cold items.
5. Worn or Failing Fillings Old fillings can shrink, loosen, or wear out, leaving your tooth vulnerable.
6. Recent Dental Work Sometimes, after a dental procedure like a filling, crown, or teeth whitening, temporary sensitivity is normal.

How Can Tooth Sensitivity Be Treated?

The right treatment depends on what’s causing the problem. At Jacksonport Dental, we start with a full dental exam to pinpoint the cause. Here are some effective treatment options:

• Desensitizing Toothpaste Special toothpaste can block nerve signals and reduce sensitivity with consistent use.
• Fluoride Treatments Professional fluoride strengthens enamel and reduces sensitivity caused by weak spots.
• Dental Fillings or Bonding If a cavity or exposed root is the culprit, bonding materials or fillings can seal sensitive areas.
• Crowns or Inlays These restore protection for teeth with larger cracks or decay.
• Gum Treatment For gum recession, treatments like scaling, root planing, fillings or even gum grafting may be recommended.
• Root Canal Therapy If sensitivity is severe and linked to nerve damage, a root canal can save your tooth and stop pain permanently.

Tips to Prevent Tooth Sensitivity

Here are some simple daily habits you can adopt:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle strokes.
• Limit acidic drinks like soda, citrus juices.
• Avoid grinding your teeth—ask about night guards if needed.
• Schedule regular dental check-ups to catch problems early.
• Don’t ignore early signs—sensitivity often means your tooth needs attention.

A Word from Dr. Richa

At Jacksonport Dental in NE Calgary, I often remind patients that sensitivity isn’t something you just have to live with. It’s your body’s way of telling you something needs care. Whether it’s a simple fix like switching toothpaste or a more advanced treatment, we’ll create a plan that keeps your smile healthy and pain-free.

If cold drinks or ice cream have become your dental enemy, let’s fix that together.

📍 Visit us at Jacksonport Dental, 124-3730, 104 Ave NE, Calgary AB T3N 0T1
📞 Call us today at 403-815-3040 or book online at jacksonportdental.ca