Why Are Teeth Sensitive to Cold, Hot, or Sugary Foods?

TL;DR:That sharp jolt you feel from ice cream, coffee, or candy might be more than just a fleeting annoyance—it’s likely due to exposed dentin or underlying oral health issues. Here’s a quick breakdown of what could be causing it and how to find relief:

Common Causes:

• Cold sensitivity
  • Worn enamel from brushing too hard or acidic foods
  • Gum recession exposing sensitive roots
  • Cavities or hairline fractures
• Hot sensitivity
  • Tooth infections or abscesses
  • Advanced decay or deep fillings
  • Gum disease or bone exposure
• Sugar sensitivity
  • Weakened enamel irritating nerve endings
  • Exposed dentin transmitting sweetness to nerves

There’s no worse feeling than taking a bite of your favorite ice cream or taking your first sip of a refreshingly cold drink, only to feel a sharp jolt of pain in your teeth. Now, an enjoyable treat has become an uncomfortable experience.

Cold might not even be the only thing causing tooth pain. Hot beverages or even sweet foods might also trigger that familiar zing of discomfort.

So, why are your teeth sensitive to cold, or even hot and sugary foods? It most often comes down to the structure of your teeth and oral health as a whole.

What is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity, also known as dentinal hypersensitivity, is typically a sudden, sharp pain that can be caused by eating cold, hot, sweet, or even sour foods. An estimated 1 in 8 Americans have experienced sudden tooth sensitivity at some point.

For some people, this sensitivity is only temporary. While others may experience chronic tooth sensitivity. No matter the case, it’s important to understand what’s causing the pain so you can remedy it.

Common Causes of Sensitivity to Cold, Hot, and Sugar

The Cleveland Clinic explains that your tooth may be suddenly sensitive because your dentin has become exposed. When your enamel wears down, exposing the roots of your teeth, you can feel pain from these sudden changes.

Teeth Sensitive to Cold

So, why is your tooth sensitive to cold food and drinks? It may be because of:

1. Worn Enamel: This protective layer may wear away due to aggressive brushing, acidic foods, or grinding (bruxism), exposing the underlying dentin. Dentin contains microscopic tubules that lead to the tooth’s nerve. When cold air, drinks, or foods touch these tubules, it can trigger sharp pain.

2. Gum Recession Exposing Tooth Roots: Gums can recede due to gum disease, improper brushing, or even genetics. When this happens, the more porous (and sensitive) root of the tooth becomes exposed.

3. Cavities or Cracked Tooth: Tooth decay and fractures create direct access for cold stimuli to reach the nerves inside the tooth. A cavity or hairline crack might not be visible, but can still cause intense pain when exposed to cold.

Teeth Sensitive to Hot

If your teeth are sensitive to hot foods and drinks, there might be something more serious going on, such as:

1. Tooth Infections or Abscesses: An abscess or infection at the root of the tooth causes inflammation, which heightens sensitivity, especially to heat.

2. Advanced Decay or Deep Fillings: When decay reaches close to the pulp (nerve center) of the tooth or if a large filling is placed near the nerve, heat is more likely to cause pain.

3. Gum Disease: Periodontal disease causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, exposing sensitive root surfaces. Advanced cases might even expose the bone, which makes teeth vulnerable to temperature changes.

Teeth Sensitive to Sugar

Sugary sweets causing sudden tooth sensitivity? It might be caused by:

1. Weakened Enamel: Which allows sugar to irritate nerve endings.

2. Exposed Dentin: Dentin exposure, whether from enamel loss or early decay, reacts not only to temperature but also to sweet foods. The tubules within dentin transmit the sensation of sweetness directly to the tooth's nerve.

3. Early Signs of Cavities: If you're experiencing sugar sensitivity without visible cavities, it may be a sign of early enamel breakdown or tiny pits starting to form.

Tips to Prevent Tooth Sensitivity

Luckily, if your tooth is sensitive to hot and cold temperatures or sweet foods, there are ways to manage this discomfort. Start by protecting your teeth at home by:

• Using a desensitizing toothpaste
• Switching to a soft-bristle toothbrush
• Avoiding acidic foods and beverages
• Rinsing with fluoride and mouthwash

You can also practice healthy habits, like wearing a mouthguard to sleep if you grind your teeth, and making sure to have regular dental checkups.

When to See a Dentist

If your tooth sensitivity is persistent or worsens over time, it’s time to see a dentist. They can help provide treatment options to help mitigate the effects of enamel erosion. These include treatments like:

• Dental sealants or bonding
• Fluoride treatments
• Gum grafts for receding gums
• Root canal (in severe cases)

Ready to get back to enjoying your favorite cold, hot, or sweet snacks? Schedule a dental check-up today with Smiles of Cary and let’s get to the root of your tooth sensitivity.