What to Know About Dental Emergencies in Cold Weather
Winter brings more than just chilly temperatures – it can also lead to increased dental problems. At Emergency & Walk-In Dentist Cardiff, we see a rise in cold-weather related tooth emergencies every winter. From cracked teeth to extreme sensitivity, here’s what you need to know to protect your smile during colder months and when to seek urgent dental care.
5 Cold Weather Dental Risks to Watch For
1. Tooth Fractures from Temperature Changes
Sudden temperature shifts can cause teeth to crack:
- Going from warm indoors to freezing outdoors
- Drinking hot beverages in cold weather
- Existing fillings expanding/contracting
If you feel a sharp pain when temperature changes occur, you may need emergency dental repair.
2. Extreme Tooth Sensitivity
Cold air triggers pain in exposed dentin:
- Worsens existing gum recession
- Makes small cracks more noticeable
- Can indicate need for root canal treatment
3. Jaw Pain from Shivering and Tension
Cold weather affects your jaw:
- Constant shivering strains TMJ
- People clench teeth to stay warm
- Can lead to chronic headaches
4. Dry Mouth from Indoor Heating
Winter air dries out your mouth:
- Reduced saliva increases cavity risk
- Makes existing toothaches feel worse
- Can cause cracked lips and mouth sores
5. Holiday-Related Dental Injuries
Winter activities bring unique risks:
- Biting hard holiday foods
- Falls on ice leading to dental trauma
- Delayed treatment due to holiday closures
Winter Dental Protection Tips
Prevention Strategies:
- Breathe through your nose in cold air
- Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth
- Stay hydrated to combat dry mouth
- Get a dental checkup before winter
Emergency Preparedness:
- Know how to handle knocked-out teeth
- Have temporary filling material at home
- Save our emergency contact information
Winter Dental Emergency?
Our Cardiff emergency dentists are here to help with cold-weather tooth problems.
Book Urgent AppointmentCold Weather Dental FAQs
Q: Is tooth pain worse in cold weather?
A: Yes, cold air and temperature changes often intensify tooth sensitivity and pain from existing dental issues.
Q: Can cold weather cause teeth to crack?
A> Extreme temperature changes can cause existing small cracks to expand, leading to fractures that need emergency dental care.
