Managing Dental Issues That Result from Cold Weather

As temperatures drop and winter rolls in throughout North Texas, many people notice changes in their oral health. Cold weather doesn’t just impact your skin and give you chapped lips, though; it can also lead to tooth sensitivity, dry mouth, and other potential issues that impact your oral health. Understanding why this happens and how to manage these problems can help you keep your smile healthy all winter long and looking its best for holiday photo ops! Here’s what you should keep in mind and how to manage your discomfort while also protecting your teeth. 

Tooth Sensitivity in Cold Weather

Cold air can trigger tooth sensitivity, especially if you have worn or cracked enamel, receded gums, or untreated cavities. Sudden exposure to cold temperatures can also cause sharp discomfort when breathing through your mouth or when drinking both hot and cold beverages. To combat this, consider using a desensitizing toothpaste. You can also avoid hot or cold foods and drinks, like hot chocolate, coffee, or frozen desserts, or enjoy them sparingly.

Dry Mouth During Winter Months

Saliva plays an important role in cavity protection, but cold air and indoor heating systems both tend to reduce humidity, which in turn can decrease your saliva flow and increase your vulnerability to cavities. To help with dry mouth, one of the best things you can do is drink plenty of water throughout the day. When you go to bed, you can also use a humidifier, which will help you sleep comfortably and wake up without dry mouth. If you’re going to be outdoors for a while, try to wear a scarf or mask over your mouth to reduce exposure to cold air.

Chapped Lips and Oral Discomfort

Cold, windy weather also often leads to dry, cracked lips, which can be painful and prone to infection. Licking your lips may seem helpful, but it actually can make the dryness even worse. Instead, apply Chapstick or lip balm to your lips, and make sure you’re drinking plenty of water.

If sensitivity, dryness, or lip irritation persists, despite your best efforts and even after the cold weather has passed, it may indicate an underlying issue—meaning you shouldn’t hesitate to let your dentist know. The earlier these problems are addressed, the sooner you can get back to smiling happily and healthily!

About the Practice

Under the leadership of Dr. George T. Philip, our team has proudly served the dental needs of patients and families in Sunnyvale and the surrounding North Texas communities for several years. We offer a variety of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative services—whatever your smile needs to remain its brightest and healthiest all throughout the holiday season. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to schedule an appointment, please reach out online or call today for more information. Telephone: (972) 285-6144.