ColdWeather and Your Teeth

When coldweather hits, you might find that your teeth are more sensitive than usual.Cold air might make your teeth ache at times, which is easy to mistake for atoothache. Before you worry about whether or not these aches mean tooth decay,keep in mind that your sinuses could be the actual culprit. Learn more aboutthe connection between sinuses and tooth sensitivity. 

YourSinuses and Oral Health

Having sharppains in your teeth when you breathe in cold air might have you thinking thatyou have a cavity or other dental problem. However, your sinuses might be thereason for this pain. Your sinuses share neural pathways with your upper teethin the back of your mouth. When you have sinus problems, such as inflammation,this can cause these nerves to become more sensitive than usual. Since thesenerves are connected to your teeth, you experience discomfort. This is morelikely to occur when it’s cold out since colds, and other viruses that affectyour sinuses are common during the winter months. 

Whatto Do About Tooth Sensitivity in Cold Weather

If you’vebeen having increased sensitivity in your back, upper teeth this winter, it’simportant to watch for other signs of sinus problems. You might have a stuffynose, a runny nose or pain and pressure in your sinus cavities. If you’rehaving symptoms of sinus inflammation or infections, you should see yourregular doctor for treatment. However, if you’re not having symptoms of sinusproblems and tooth sensitivity doesn’t go away, you should seek dental care.This sensitivity might be related to other causes, such as temporomandibularjoint disorder, tooth decay or other kinds of oral health problems. Seeing adentist helps ensure that you receive a more accurate diagnosis and prompttreatment that helps prevent mild oral health problems from becoming moreserious ones. 

If you havetooth sensitivity this winter, contact Great Lakes Dental to set up anappointment. We can determine the cause of this sensitivity and treat it.

your appointment.