As we head into the winter season, the cold, dry weather brings additional challenges when it comes to protecting and maintaining oral health. Dr. James A. Penney is an experienced endodontist who has been providing expert dental care for over 20 years. Endodontists are dentists who specialize in saving your teeth! Dr. Penney and his trusted team make caring for your teeth more accessible, attainable, and personal. With a 24/7 answering service, you can ask questions, address concerns, or schedule an appointment at any time! Our team is always here to provide care and to help you prioritize your oral health. Keep reading for our tips on how you can protect your teeth from the harsh effects of winter weather.
What to watch out for in winter
Winter brings cold temperatures, brisk wind, and dryer air, but it also brings warm holiday gatherings with friends and family. But what does that mean for your teeth?
The colder outdoor air and heated indoor air can cause the soft tissue in the mouth to dry out and cause the muscles in the mouth and jaw to feel tighter than usual or cause sensitivity. Winter also brings seasonal illnesses that impact our sinuses, making it hard to breathe through the nose. Breathing through your mouth, especially in colder weather, can lead to dry mou and cracked lips. This increases your risk for tooth decay, gum disease, and infection.
Winter usually brings holiday sweets and warm drinks like cocoa and cider. Consuming too many hot beverages, or too much sugar can also lead to increased tooth sensitivity.
Tooth sensitivity guide
If discomfort only lasts a few moments, sensitivity to food temperature generally does not signify a problem. The cause of discomfort could be a loose filling, or minimal gum recession, which will expose small areas of the root surface. You may try using toothpaste made for sensitive teeth. Brushing vertically up and down with a soft brush. If you brush horizontally, you may wear away the exposed root surfaces. If this does not help, you should see your dentist.
Lingering pain after eating hot or cold foods probably means the pulp has been damaged by deep decay or physical trauma. If you’re experiencing persistent sensitivity this winter, see your endodontist to save the tooth with root canal treatment.
How to protect your teeth
As we bundle up to stay warm in the winter weather, here are some additional tips from our team for protecting your teeth too.
- Drink plenty of water
- Consider using a humidifier indoors
- Use quality lip balm
- Cover your mouth with a scarf to keep warm and limit winter weather exposure
- If you’re experiencing dry mouth, only use sugar-free gum or gum with xylitol to boost saliva production
- Throw out your toothbrush after any seasonal illnesses
- Be mindful with sugar and hot beverage consumption
- Brush your teeth twice a day
- Floss daily
Remember, if you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain or sensitivity, don’t wait to see a provider. Our team is here to provide state-of-the-art care and preserve your natural teeth. Call us today to schedule your appointment!