Why Do My Teeth Hurt in the Cold? A Guide from Poussin Dental

Here at our office in Westfield, NJ, we watch the winter weather roll in just like you do. We know the drill: the snow tires are on, the heavy coats are out, and everyone knows exactly where to find the best hot cocoa in town.

But while you are winterizing your home and car, there is one thing you might be forgetting: your smile.

At Poussin Dental, we tend to see a spike in certain dental issues every time the temperature drops in Union County. The cold weather, combined with indoor heating and changes in diet, can take a surprising toll on your oral health.

Here is your guide to winter-proofing your smile, from dealing with that sudden "zing" of pain to fighting dry mouth.

1. Why do my teeth hurt when I breathe cold air?

That sharp, sudden pain you feel when stepping out onto a freezing New Jersey morning is often called "Winter Zing."

The Cause: Teeth are porous. Extreme cold can cause the fluid inside the tiny tubes of your dentin (the layer beneath your enamel) to move, stimulating the nerve. This is common if you have gum recession or thin enamel.

The Solution:

• Breathe through your nose: This warms the air before it hits your teeth.

• Switch toothpaste: Use a desensitizing toothpaste containing potassium nitrate.

• Visit us: If the pain lingers after you warm up, it could indicate a crack or cavity. Schedule a checkup at our office.

2. Can winter weather cause cavities?

Indirectly, yes. The culprit is usually Dry Mouth (Xerostomia).

The Cause: Between the dry winter air outside and the central heating inside your home, your body creates less saliva. Saliva is your mouth’s natural defense—it washes away food and neutralizes bacterial acid. Less saliva means a higher risk of decay.

The Solution:

• Hydrate: Drink water constantly, even if you aren't thirsty.

• Humidify: Run a humidifier in your bedroom at night.

• Chew: Sugar-free gum (especially with Xylitol) stimulates saliva flow.

3. How do I protect my lips from cracking?

Chapped lips are a hallmark of winter in the Northeast, but they can also impact your dental hygiene.

The Cause: The skin on your lips is thin and lacks oil glands. Wind and cold dry them out instantly, leading to painful cracks (fissures) that can make brushing and flossing uncomfortable, causing people to skip their routine.

The Solution:

• SPF Lip Balm: Winter sun is strong; protect your lips from UV rays and windburn.

• Don't Lick: Licking your lips actually dries them out faster.

• Stay the Course: Don't skip flossing even if it’s uncomfortable—your gums need the care!

4. What about winter sports safety?

Whether you are sledding at Echo Lake Park or playing hockey, winter sports carry a high risk of dental trauma.

The Solution: Always wear a mouthguard. A custom-fitted guard from your dentist offers significantly better protection against chipped or knocked-out teeth than a generic "boil-and-bite" store brand.

Local Guide: Finding a Dentist Near Me in Union County

If you are looking for a "dentist near me" to help with tooth pain this winter, convenience and trust are key. Poussin Dental is proud to contain our practice in Westfield and serve families across the entire vicinity.

We are a short drive for patients coming from:

• Cranford, NJ (Just a 5-minute drive!)

• Scotch Plains & Fanwood

• Garwood

• Mountainside

• Clark

Whether you need a routine cleaning, are suffering from cold-weather sensitivity, or need a cosmetic refresh before the holidays, Dr. Poussin and her team is here to provide gentle, top-tier care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions patients ask Dr. Poussin during the winter months.

Q: Can cold weather crack my teeth?

A: It is rare for cold air alone to crack healthy teeth. However, if you have metal fillings, they expand and contract at different rates than your natural tooth, which can cause stress fractures over time during extreme temperature shifts.

Q: Is hot cocoa bad for my teeth?

A: Hot cocoa is often high in sugar. If you sip it slowly over an hour, you are bathing your teeth in sugar and acid. It is better to drink it relatively quickly and then rinse your mouth with water.

Q: When should I book my winter dental checkup?

A: The best time is January or February. It ensures your dental benefits for the new year are utilized and catches any damage done by holiday sweets.

Is the cold weather bothering your teeth? Don't wait for the spring thaw to fix it. [Contact Poussin Dental today at (908) 232-3550]