Winters are intense in Illinois, and being out in cold weather can intensify toothache pain. Oftentimes, patients suffer from sharp, aching teeth during our coldest months. In today’s blog, you’ll learn why winters make pain worse and what to do to relieve oral pain. As dentists in Naperville, IL, Dr. Brown and our team can relieve your pain by addressing the core issues, like thin tooth enamel, cracks and chips, cavities and other infections, and gum recession.
Dr. Brown has helped Naperville patients manage tooth pain and maintain healthy smiles for many years. At Thomas F. Brown, DDS Family & Sedation Dentistry, you’ll be heard, valued, respected, and safe. We prioritize patient comfort in all of our procedures and even offer sedation for those suffering from anxiety, as well as those who need many procedures accomplished in only one or two visits. We are your home for excellent clinical dentistry and superb service, so call to schedule your appointment today: (630) 283-1851.
Why Cold Weather Triggers Tooth Pain
The nature of your dental problem determines whether your toothaches will increase in a cold atmosphere. Let’s dive into the three main toothache causes our dentists in Naperville, IL, treat at Dr. Brown’s office.
Tooth Enamel & Sensitivity
When teeth are exposed to temperature changes, they naturally expand and contract. Cold air can trigger discomfort in teeth with weakened or thin enamel, allowing sensations to reach the inner tooth more easily. This results in sudden, acute pain, in some cases. That pain is a warning sign telling you to visit your Naperville, IL, dentist, Dr. Brown, as soon as possible.
Cracked or Damaged Teeth
The nerve of a tooth, which senses pain signals and sends them to the brain, lives within the pulp inside a sealed chamber within the tooth. Hairline cracks, larger cracks, and chips may be more sensitive in cold environments. With fractures, you may experience pain most acutely and often when chewing, or when breathing cold air through your mouth. After Dr. Brown repairs damaged teeth, discomfort subsides–so you can enjoy the snow!
Cavities and Other Infections
Cavities (AKA tooth decay, dental caries) are an infection that begins on tooth enamel. Over time, a cavity may spread wide and/or go deeper inward, toward the tooth’s core. Other infections, like abscesses and infections within a tooth, may cause throbbing pain or uncomfortable pressure. Many times, in cold climes pain intensifies. Dr. Brown and our compassionate, professional dental team can restore health by treating decay, which will also end your pain.
Gum Recession
Teeth crowns, the white portion we see in the mirror, are coated with insulating tooth enamel. Teeth roots, sealed below gums and anchored in the jawbone, have no enamel. When gum tissue recedes, which can occur for a few reasons, uninsulated teeth roots are partially exposed. This makes teeth particularly sensitive to cold air. You may experience sharp pain when cold air contacts exposed teeth roots. Dr. Brown can treat the underlying cause of gum disease and help stabilize gum health. In some cases, advanced treatments such as gum grafting or bonding may be recommended to protect exposed roots and reduce sensitivity.
Call Your Emergency Dentists in Naperville, IL
Don’t let cold-weather dental pain keep you by the fireside all season. Call us today at (630) 283-1851 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Brown or one of our other dentists. We are here to help! Restoring your oral health, in combination with good daily home care, will boost your overall health. Many studies have shown an association between poor oral health and certain systemic conditions. So don’t delay. Call today!