A San Marcos, TX, Dentist on What’s Causing Your Hot and Cold Tooth Sensitivity

One place you should never feel cold is your teeth. Sensitivity to temperature, either hot or cold, usually indicates a dental problem. Our dentist in San Marcos, TX, outlines a few common causes and cures below. You can learn the specific source of your discomfort when you come in for a dental exam.

Why Teeth Get Sensitive to Temperature

The most common reason for hot or cold reactions is because a tooth’s dentin is exposed. Dentin is what lies under your enamel. It contains tiny tubules that lead to the nerves of the tooth. Those nerves are what react to external stimuli like changes in temperature. There are several possible causes for that process.

Damaged Enamel

Generally speaking, almost all tooth sensitivity is caused by damaged enamel. However, in this case, we’re talking about harm caused by specific actions:

• Brushing Too Hard: You can actually damage your teeth by brushing too vigorously or using a brush with stiff bristles.
• Grinding Your Teeth: Called bruxism, this condition includes both grinding and clenching your teeth, which wears down enamel over time.
• Consuming Acidic Food or Drink: Coffee, wine, sodas, fermented or processed foods, and sweets damage enamel and expose dentin.

Tooth Decay

Severe temperature sensitivity can be an indicator of damage to your tooth from cavities or cracks. Even minor discomfort with hot or cold can be an early warning sign of decay.

Gum Disease

Periodontal disease can cause your gums to get inflamed and recede, exposing the dentin. If you have painful or bleeding gums in addition to sensitivity, ask about periodontal therapy.

Teeth Whitening

In contrast with the other causes, teeth whitening doesn’t strip enamel. Sensitivity from this procedure is minor and temporary. After whitening with our dentist in San Marcos, TX, we offer tips for managing hot or cold.

At-Home Remedies for Tolerating Heat or Cold

If you experience tooth sensitivity, the Aqua Springs Dental team can give you steps to manage and reduce discomfort:

• Soft-Bristled Toothbrushes: This can reinforce gentler brushing habits.

• Desensitizing Toothpaste: We can recommend a brand for you.

• Dietary Changes: Cutting out acidic foods can offer relief.
• Nighttime Mouth Guards: We can create custom nightguards for you.

However, if your sensitivity is due to a more complex underlying condition, these measures will only treat the symptoms.

When a San Marcos Dentist Needs to Intervene

Any tooth pain or discomfort should get checked out by Aqua Springs Dental. Once we determine what’s going on, we might try any of the following treatments:

• Fluoride Varnish: A concentrated fluoride treatment is applied to teeth to strengthen the enamel.

• Dental Sealants: Thin, plastic coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth to protect them from decay.

• Root Canal Treatment: Infected or damaged tissue in the pulp of your tooth is removed and then the canal is filled.

• Gum Grafting: Tissue is taken from another part of your mouth and attached to the affected area to cover the exposed root of your tooth, reducing sensitivity.

Enjoy Hot and Cold Food and Drink Again

Because tooth sensitivity has so many potential causes, it should not be ignored. Visit Aqua Springs Dental for an evaluation at the first sign of temperature discomfort. Our San Marcos dentist can take action to help you get back to enjoying hot cocoa in the winter and cold sweet tea in the summer.