Tips for Winter Tooth Sensitivity

Worn tooth enamel, exposed routes, cavities, cracked or chipped teeth, or other issues may be causing a painful condition referred to as tooth sensitivity, also known as “dentin hypersensitivity.” While living with sensitive teeth already presents many challenges, lower temperatures in the winter can further amplify the unpleasant sensations of this condition.

In this blog, renowned prosthodontist Dr. Gerald Marlin and the experts at Elite Prosthetic Dentistry discuss tooth sensitivity, what causes it, and what you should do to reduce this pain during the colder months.

What Causes Teeth Sensitivity?

Sensitive teeth are often triggered by:

• Vigorous brushing
• Eating or drinking hot or cold foods
• Acidic foods or drinks
• Using alcohol-based mouth rinses
• Grinding teeth at night
• The condition occurs due
• Gum recession
• Broken teeth
• Worn down fillings or crowns
• Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)

If you have one of these conditions and are experiencing chronic or recurring tooth sensitivity, reach out to your dental provider immediately. Waiting too long will only increase your discomfort, which in turn decreases your quality of life. Additionally, if you are unaware that you have one of these conditions listed above, your tooth sensitivity likely indicates a more significant problem.

How to Prevent Tooth Sensitivity

A simple way to reduce your risk of sensitivity to cold is to brush twice a day with a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush and floss once daily. Furthermore, reducing excessive hot fluid intake in the cold winter months is another way of preventing tooth sensitivity.

A well-planned oral health and wellness program with us will help protect your teeth and prevent conditions like enamel wear or receding gums, which be a catalyst to sensitive teeth or even more severe complications.

If you already have sensitive teeth and find it difficult to eat, drink, or enjoy your life in the way you want, talk to your dentist about finding a solution.

What Should I Do If I Have Sensitive Teeth?

Only a professional can adequately assess your sensitive teeth and recommend suitable treatment, which may include prescription toothpaste or mouthwash, a root canal, or other methods. If you have a more severe case of tooth sensitivity, or if a more significant problem is indicated, a general dentist will likely refer your case to a specialist.

At Elite Prosthetic Dentistry, we see many such cases and receive many referrals due to our unmatched problem-solving approach. Our solutions for sensitive teeth often include:

• Dental Crowns: Also known as “caps,” crowns are placed over teeth compromised by trauma, infection, or decay. The dental crowns at Elite Prosthetic Dentistry are crafted in our in-house laboratory, enabling Dr. Gerald Marlin optimal control over their creation. This helps us produce dental crowns precisely matched in size, shape, shade, and translucency to all adjacent teeth. Our customized crowns last for over 35 years, far exceeding the national average.
• Inlays/Onlays: Dental inlays are fitted in our custom in-house laboratory and molded in the chewing area of your tooth that has been damaged through injury or decay. Conversely, onlays are used for damage and deterioration to the tooth’s cusps and biting surface.
• Gum Contouring and Reshaping: Gum reshaping prevents tooth sensitivity and ensures oral health. Restoring your gum tissue may become vital for preserving the bone over your teeth, thereby contributing to their longevity.

Why Choose Elite Prosthetic Dentistry?

Award-winning prosthodontist Dr. Gerald Marlin has long been regarded as one of the top prosthodontists in the Washington DC metro area, proudly serving patients from Arlington, Chevy Chase, Bethesda, and even from far across the country. He is highly esteemed in the industry for his outstanding dental work, contributions, patents, as well as his compassionate dedication to his many valued patients.

If you are suffering from the ongoing effects of sensitive teeth, contact Dr. Marlin and his dream team today for a friendly and informative consultation. We are committed to finding your optimal sensitive teeth treatment while providing an unmatched patient experience. We look forward to hearing from you soon!