Cool teeth

Teeth that react to cold may have exposed dentine, enamel wear, decay, or gum recession and should be assessed if the pain persists.

Cold liquid or air can move fluid through open dentine tubules and stimulate nerves inside a tooth. A short sharp response often differs from pain that lingers, occurs spontaneously, or is focused in one tooth.

Use a soft toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and gentle pressure, and reduce repeated exposure to very cold or acidic drinks. A dentist can apply fluoride or a dentine-sealing material, repair decay or a worn surface, or assess the pulp when symptoms are prolonged.

Book an examination when sensitivity is new, worsening, limited to one tooth, or present after a crack, filling, whitening treatment, or injury. Prompt care matters when cold pain lingers, chewing hurts, or swelling develops.

Ask whether the pain comes from exposed dentine, a cavity, a crack, gum recession, or pulp inflammation. Ask which toothpaste, fluoride treatment, filling, or other procedure fits the affected tooth and why.