Smil, Unit 69-70, Dockside Outlet Shopping Centre, Maritime Way, St Mary's Island, Chatham, ME4 3ED
Smil, Unit 69-70, Dockside Outlet Shopping Centre, Maritime Way, St Mary's Island, Chatham, ME4 3ED
There’s nothing quite like the first sip of a cold iced latte or a crisp Diet Coke on a hot, sunny summer’s day. But for many of us, those first sips can be accompanied by a wince.
If cold drinks and frozen treats make your teeth twinge, you’re not alone. Sensitive smiles are more common than you might think.
At Smil, we often see an increase in sensitivity complaints during the warmer months. Understanding why this happens can help you manage the discomfort and enjoy summer without giving up your favourite treats. Keep reading to learn more.
Tooth sensitivity happens when the protective layer of your teeth, the enamel, is worn down, exposing the softer layer underneath called the dentin. Dentin leads to the nerves inside the tooth. When it is exposed to extremes of temperature, like ice-cold lemonade, it can cause a sharp, shooting pain that is difficult to ignore.
Gum recession can also expose the roots of the teeth, which are not covered by enamel. This can make your teeth particularly vulnerable to cold, especially if you’re older or have gum disease.
Warmer weather itself doesn’t cause sensitivity but it’s what we tend to consume during the summer that brings it out and makes it more noticeable. Icy drinks and frozen desserts all put your teeth’s resilience to the test.
Because we reach for cold snacks more frequently in the summer, the exposed areas of the teeth are hit again and again. That stimulation can make mild sensitivity feel much more intense, especially if there’s already a weakened enamel layer.
It’s also worth knowing that many of our favourite summer drinks are icy cold and also acidic. Acidic drinks can weaken enamel over time, making teeth more sensitive. Even sparkling water with lemon can slowly erode the protective outer layer of the teeth if you’re having it often enough.
When enamel is worn down by acid, our teeth become even more vulnerable to cold sensations. So that chilled glass of rosé or tropical cocktail may be doing more than just refreshing you. It could be quietly contributing to your sensitivity.
If cold drinks are causing more than just a brief zing. If the pain lingers or feels deep. Or if the pain only affects one tooth. It’s worth checking with your dentist. Sometimes what seems like sensitivity can actually be a sign of something more serious, such as a cracked tooth, a cavity or even an early infection.
Persistent discomfort should never be ignored. A quick check-up at our Chatham practice can give you peace of mind and help prevent a small issue from turning into something more complicated.
*Use a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. These toothpastes contain ingredients that help block the tubules in the dentin, which reduces nerve response to stimuli.
*With regular use, common triggers like cold or acidic foods become less painful.
*Noticeable relief often takes several days to a few weeks of daily use, so be sure to remain consistent.
*Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent further enamel erosion and gum irritation.
*Brush gently. Aggressive brushing can wear down enamel and expose dentin, worsening sensitivity.
*Avoid abrasive toothpaste. Whitening or smoker’s toothpaste may exacerbate the issue due to their gritty texture.
*Consider switching to an electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor. This helps to ensure thorough cleaning without harming sensitive areas.
*Use a straw when drinking cold drinks. This helps direct the liquid past the sensitive front teeth.
*Avoid swishing cold drinks around your mouth. Swishing increases contact time with sensitive areas, intensifying discomfort.
*Be mindful of temperature. Extremely cold drinks can be more triggering, so consider letting them warm slightly before sipping.
Many people treat themselves to a brighter smile ahead of their summer holidays, and whitening treatments have become increasingly popular. But one side effect of teeth whitening is increased sensitivity, especially to cold.
This sensitivity happens because whitening agents, like hydrogen peroxide, can penetrate the enamel and temporarily irritate the nerve inside the tooth. It usually fades within a few days, but for some of us it can linger. If you’re planning a whitening treatment, talk to our approachable dentists beforehand about options that are less likely to trigger sensitivity.
Some professional teeth whitening treatments include desensitising agents to reduce discomfort, and there are also aftercare products that can soothe sensitivity.
If you’re changing your habits and using sensitive toothpaste, but still feel that twinge of discomfort, it’s time to book an appointment. Our experienced dentists can check for signs of enamel erosion, gum recession or other oral health issues that may be contributing to your pain.
Remember that sensitivity isn’t something you just have to live with. If tooth sensitivity is holding you back, don’t wait. There are gentle, effective treatments that can ease your symptoms and allow you to enjoy summer in full.
Don’t let tooth sensitivity spoil your summer! Contact our experienced team on 01634 756536 today for guidance.
Back to Blog
Smil, Unit 69-70, Dockside Outlet Shopping Centre, Maritime Way, St Mary's Island, Chatham, ME4 3ED
