Winter toothache: Prevention and management

Post date: Dec 11, 2020 9:17:55 PM

More people complain of toothache come the winter months as colder temperatures may cause teeth to become more sensitive. It’s important to take more notice of one’s dental health during winter to prevent serious dental issues such as tooth sensitivity and cracks. If stay-at-home orders prevent one from heading to their dentist in person, schedule a teledentistry session instead. Getting a professional opinion on one’s dental health will help them take better care of their teeth, says Kami Hoss, DDS, MS. It is possible that the manner a person brushes their teeth affect the health of their teeth and gums. Trade the harsh toothbrush for a soft-bristled for better cleaning. The winter months are almost synonymous to infections and inflammations. Avoid these by keeping hands and fingers away from the mouth.

Don’t skimp on the quality of a mouth guard. Winter sports can put one’s teeth and gums in danger, so be sure to get ones that are fitted. When tooth becomes too sensitive and painful, it would be helpful to brush with desensitizing toothpaste. Steer clear of cold drinks and warm drinks alike that can have excessive sugar can lead to plaque buildup. Sensitive teeth can be treated with a fluoride application, mentions Dr. Kami Hoss. For worse cases, a dentist may need to cover a patient’s root surfaces to fix receding gums. Teeth with deep decay caused by a crack or chip may need to undergo root canal treatment, a procedure that removes a soft pulp deep inside a fractured tooth. Kami Hoss, DDS, MS, is the CEO of The Super Dentists, the largest pediatric dentistry and orthodontic practice in San Diego. He holds a master’s in craniofacial biology and a doctorate in dental surgery. For more updates from Dr. Kami Hoss, head over to this page.