Why are my teeth so sensitive to cold?

Let’s be honest—there’s nothing fun about that sharp zing you feel when you take a sip of ice water or bite into ice cream. If your teeth are sensitive to cold, you’re definitely not alone. I hear about this all the time, and yes—it can be annoying. The good news? It’s usually fixable.

Let’s talk about what might be going on—and how to stop it.

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What’s Actually Happening?

Your teeth have a protective outer layer called enamel, and under that is a more sensitive layer called dentin, which is full of little nerve channels. When that dentin gets exposed—either from worn enamel, gum recession, or small defects in the tooth—you start feeling cold sensitivity. That’s the “zing” you feel when cold hits.

Here’s what might be causing it:

Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush

Gum recession (can be from brushing or gum disease)

Tooth grinding or clenching

Cavities or cracked teeth

Old fillings that no longer seal well

Your bite being off — if your teeth don't come together properly, it can create pressure points that cause tiny enamel defects or abrasions, which lead to sensitivity

Crowded teeth or malocclusion (bad bite) — these can also cause uneven wear, gum recession, or areas where you can’t clean well, all of which can lead to sensitivity

Recent dental work or whitening (usually temporary)

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What Does Sensitivity Feel Like?

Quick, sharp pain when exposed to cold

Could be one tooth or multiple

Usually lasts a few seconds, but can be intense

If it lingers longer than that, something more serious may be going on

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What Can You Do?

Here are some things I suggest to patients who deal with cold sensitivity:

Use a sensitivity toothpaste

Something like Sensodyne or Colgate Sensitive—give it a couple of weeks of regular use to really see the difference.

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush

Be gentle! No scrubbing like you’re cleaning your bathroom tile. Gentle, circular motions do the job just fine.

Cut back on acidic foods and drinks

Citrus, wine, soda, vinegar—they all erode enamel. Rinse with water after eating/drinking them.

Wear a night guard if you grind

Grinding can wear down enamel quickly. A night guard helps protect your teeth while you sleep.

Get your bite checked

If your teeth don’t fit together properly or you’re hitting certain teeth harder than others, it can cause microfractures, enamel wear, and gum issues—all of which lead to sensitivity. A simple bite adjustment or orthodontic evaluation can help.

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When to Come In

The pain is getting worse

It only affects one tooth

It lingers more than a few seconds

You’ve had a recent change in your bite or dental work

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Final Thoughts

Tooth sensitivity to cold isn’t something you have to live with. Whether it’s your bite, brushing habits, or something deeper like a cavity or exposed root—we can help figure it out and fix it.

If this sounds like you, don’t wait. The sooner we take a look, the faster we can get you feeling normal again.

#dental, #tooth sensitivity, #health