If you find your tooth is sensitive to heat or hot temperatures when eating or drinking, it usually means your dentin is exposed or irritated. The dentin is the layer of your tooth beneath your enamel. It has tubules that connect to the nerves of the tooth and are responsible for all sensations in your tooth when you chew, including pain. If your enamel is weakened or your gums recede, it can expose the dentin and make your tooth sensitive to heat.
Your tooth may also be sensitive to cold when the dentin is exposed or irritated. You may experience a gnawing aching sensation or a sharp pain when you drink cold drinks or eat ice cream. Sometimes a tooth is sensitive to cold after a whitening treatment. Whitening teeth can temporarily remove minerals in the dentin. Once minerals are restored by brushing with fluoride, then your tooth might not be sensitive to cold anymore. Try to avoid hot and cold drinks after whitening. Teeth whitening isn’t the only thing that may make your tooth sensitive to hot and cold.
There are various potential causes for your tooth sensitivity, like:
In some cases, the causes of tooth sensitivity can be reversed by practicing good oral hygiene. Brush at least twice a day. Floss or clean between your teeth with interdental brushes or water flossers at least once a day; use an antimicrobial mouthrinse and a tongue scraper. And be sure to see your dental professional for regular checkups so they can catch any developing conditions early.
Depending on the cause and severity of the condition responsible for your tooth sensitivity, your dental professional may recommend a toothpaste or mouthrinse for sensitive teeth. These products contain ingredients that can help you numb your nerve endings and strengthen your tooth enamel. This may help if your tooth is sensitive to hot and cold.
The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) suggests seeing your dental professional if your sensitivity lingers more than 30 seconds after coming in contact with an extreme temperature or if your tooth pain is ongoing or severe. These are all signs that you could have a cavity, exposed nerves, infection, or gum disease that's severe enough that you'll need professional treatment, which may include:
If your tooth is sensitive to heat or you experience sensitivity in your teeth when you're trying to enjoy hot or cold treats, the good news is your condition is treatable. By practicing good oral hygiene, you may be able to reverse the condition on your own. And if you have tooth sensitivity to hot and cold that is ongoing or concerns you, don't wait for your next checkup. Get in for an appointment right away. Your dental professional will be able to diagnose the cause and give you the treatment you need so you can get back to enjoying food and beverages of any temperature. Now that's something to smile about.
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
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