Winter Tooth Sensitivity Tips from Dr. Maninder Singh

If you’re like most people in Springdale, you want to make the most of every season, including winter. But that becomes harder when cold air makes your teeth ache with every breath. 
 
Thankfully, Dr. Singh and your Aspen Dental care team are here to help you understand why sensitivity flares up as temperatures drop, and how to find relief. Here’s what you need to know to keep smiling and stay comfortable this season.   
 

• What triggers sharp tooth pain? Cold air, winter weather and Cincinnati temperature swings can irritate sensitive dentin if your enamel is worn or gums are receding. 

• Why address tooth sensitivity? Because sensitivity isn't just uncomfortable - it can point to other issues, like cavities, gum disease or enamel erosion that can worsen over time. 

• What can you do? Simple changes, like using desensitizing toothpaste, breathing through your nose and avoiding acidic foods, often bring relief. 

• Need help quickly? Dr. Maninder Singh at Aspen Dental in Springdale offers same-day appointments, walk-in availability and affordable treatment options to help you tackle sensitivity before it becomes a bigger problem. 

Why do my teeth hurt in cold weather? 

You might have felt it before: that sudden, sharp jolt when you step outside on a cold December morning in Cincinnati. Maybe it happens at the Springdale Tree Lighting or the moment you take a breath before sipping hot cocoa. The cold hits your teeth, and suddenly you're wincing.  

Here's what's going on. Your tooth enamel, the hard protective outer layer, is supposed to shield the sensitive dentin underneath. However, when enamel wears down due to grinding, acidic foods, aggressive brushing or simply genetics, microscopic tubules in the dentin become exposed. Cold air rushes in, reaches your nerves and triggers pain. 

Sadly, receding gums can also make things worse. When gums pull back, it exposes the root of the tooth, which has no enamel to protect it. Sometimes just one tooth reacts, other times,  several react at once to that crisp Ohio air. 

Dr. Maninder Singh at Aspen Dental in Springdale sees this in winter. Patients come in frustrated because they want to fully enjoy the season, but they can’t due to their aching teeth. Thanks to these expert tips, a few smart habits and the right care from Dr. Singh, tooth sensitivity in cold weather can be managed.   

What makes Cincinnati winters especially hard on sensitive teeth? 

Residents of Springdale know that Cincinnati doesn't mess around when it comes to winter. One day it's 45 degrees and the next it's bitter cold with a wind that cuts right through your coat and your smile.  

The dry winter air doesn’t help. When the air is dry, your mouth produces less saliva, which normally helps to protect your teeth and reduce irritation.  

Then, there's the active, outdoor lifestyle. You and your friends and family don't hibernate just because it's winter. Whether attending the tree lighting ceremony on Princeton Pike, cheering at the Santa 5K or grabbing coffee near Tri-County Mall, you’re frequently exposed to cold air. More exposure means more opportunities for tooth pain—especially if you're breathing through your mouth, and exposing your teeth to cold air, while walking, talking or laughing. 

Plus, heaters, dry indoor air and warm beverages create quick temperature changes that can make sensitive teeth throb. That rapid heating and cooling causes teeth to expand and contract, which can aggravate enamel that’s already worn or weakened.   

Dr. Singh's five essential tips for managing sensitive teeth this winter 

1. Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush and ease up on pressure 

If you're using a medium or hard-bristled brush or brushing like you're scrubbing tile grout, you may be wearing down your enamel faster than you think. Dr. Singh recommends using a soft-bristled brush (electric or manual) and gentle circular motions. Think of it as cleaning with care, not force—your gums and enamel will thank you. Most people notice less sensitivity within a few weeks. 

2. Use desensitizing toothpaste daily (and give it time to work) 

Toothpastes with potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride help block the tiny tubules in your dentin, reducing nerve irritation over time. However, relief isn’t instant. It usually takes about two weeks of daily use (twice a day) to feel a difference. For extra support, Dr. Singh often suggests applying a small dab to sensitive spots before bed and letting it sit overnight. 

3. Breathe through your nose during outdoor activities 

When you're walking from your car to the store, at the Springdale tree lighting or running the Santa 5K, try to breathe through your nose. Nasal breathing warms and humidifies the air before it reaches your teeth, reducing that sharp cold shock. When talking or laughing outdoors, resting your tongue against the roof of your mouth can also help shield sensitive areas from cold air. 

4. Cut back on acidic foods and drinks 

Coffee, wine, soda and citrus juices all contain acid that can weaken enamel. Although Dr. Singh doesn't expect you to give up your morning coffee, especially during a Cincinnati winter, he does recommend using a straw for cold or acidic beverages, rinsing with water afterward, and waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing. Brushing right after consuming acidic foods can scrub away softened enamel, thereby increasing sensitivity instead of protecting your teeth. 

5. Consider a night guard if you grind your teeth 

If you wake up with a sore jaw, headaches or extra sensitive teeth, grinding may be the culprit. Chronic grinding wears down enamel, flattens tooth surfaces and can even cause tiny fractures that lead to more discomfort. A custom night guard from Aspen Dental provides a protective barrier that absorbs pressure and gives your enamel a chance to recover. 

How to enjoy Springdale's winter events without tooth pain 

Springdale’s tree lighting is one of those traditions you don't want to miss. Families gather, kids sip hot chocolate and the whole community shows up to kick off the holiday season. Don’t let sensitive teeth make the whole season feel more stressful than festive.  

Before heading out, brush with desensitizing toothpaste and avoid acidic foods or drinks for at least an hour beforehand. Bring a scarf or mask that you can pull over your mouth when needed. If you get hot chocolate or coffee at the event, let it cool slightly before drinking to avoid extreme temperature changes.  

The same applies to the Santa 5K. If you're running or walking, keep your mouth closed as much as possible, and breathe through your nose. Afterward, chewing sugar-free gum can help increase saliva, neutralize acid buildup and reduce dryness.  

If tooth sensitivity is stopping you from enjoying Springdale’s winter traditions, it's time to schedule an appointment with Dr. Singh. Treatments, such as fluoride varnishes or dental bonding, can offer long-term relief and help you get back to engaging in the activities you enjoy.   

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Maninder Singh today 

Tooth sensitivity shouldn't control your winter. You deserve to enjoy Springdale's seasonal events, breathe in the crisp Cincinnati air and drink warm beverages without hesitation. Dr. Maninder Singh and your Aspen Dental Springdale care team are here to help you with same-day appointments, walk-in availability and treatment options designed for lasting relief. 

You can schedule an appointment online or call the Springdale office directly. Same-day availability means you don't have to wait to get answers. Flexible financing options make quality dental care accessible, even without insurance. Our third-party lenders help make treatments simple, secure and within budget. Plus, 99% of patients are approved for financing. You can also check out the Aspen Dental Savings Plan to save on dental care all year long.  Please note that Aspen Dental does not accept Medicaid.

Located conveniently near Tri-County Mall, Aspen Dental in Springdale is ready to help you take control of your tooth sensitivity and enjoy everything this season brings. Don't let another Cincinnati winter pass you by. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Singh today.