If you live in Chicago, you’re no stranger to cold temperatures during the winter months. While we’re into February, there’s still plenty of cold days ahead of us. Our dentist in Wrigleyville wants to explain the correlation between your oral health and the weather outside, as many of our patients may not know that the frigid temperatures can take a toll on their smile.
Dry Air & Your Tooth Enamel
During the winter months, the air is naturally drier, resulting in your tooth’s enamel to expand and contract with the changes in temperature. With less and less moisture in the air during the winter, our dental office often receives an influx of calls with patients suffering from pain and increased sensitivity.
On top of that, water consumption during the winter is lower for many, resulting in even more problems.
We’ve compiled some telltale signs that your oral health is suffering as the result of the colder temperatures.
Temperature Sensitivity
Increased sensitivity to hot and cold food and drinks is one example of a side effect you may be experiencing. For example, when you leave your warm house to go to the grocery store on a cold day, your teeth will begin to contract and they will naturally start to pull away from your gums. In the majority of situations, the pain is only temporary, however, in extreme cases, your tooth may fracture. In this case, be sure to contact our emergency dentist in Lakeview.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth can happen year-round, but the dry air in the winter can make this condition even worse. While you may not think of dry mouth as a reason to call our office, it can become increasingly difficult for your mouth to fight off bacteria and infections. Be mindful that dry mouth can also be the result of some of your medications.
Mouth Sores
Another result of drier air is an increase in mouth sores such as canker sores or cold sores. Cold sores are contagious and can put additional stress on your dental health and your overall health.
Call Us For State-of-the-Art Dental Treatment
Because so many dental problems can be amplified during the winter, don’t hesitate to call our Wrigleyville dental office for a wide variety of quality dental services. Request an appointment with us online!
