Why do my teeth hurt when I drink cold water, and what can I do?

Question

Many people feel a sharp twinge in their teeth from cold water, ice cream or sweet food (daant mein thanda lagna). They ask what causes it and whether a toothpaste for sensitive teeth is enough.

DoctorOS Team · Answer

A short, sharp pain from cold, hot or sweet things usually means the inner layer of the tooth (dentin) has lost its protective covering, often from worn enamel or gums pulling back (ADA). A toothpaste for sensitive teeth and gentler brushing often help mild cases. Sensitivity can also be a sign of a cavity, gum disease or a cracked tooth, so see a dentist if it doesn't settle (Cleveland Clinic).

Common causes

Brushing too hard or using a hard toothbrush, which can wear enamel and make gums pull back.
Acidic food and drink. Cleveland Clinic names citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles (achaar) and tea.
Receding gums and gum disease (masooron ki bimari), which can expose the tooth root.
Grinding or clenching your teeth.
Tooth decay (daant mein keera), cracked teeth or worn fillings.
Whitening products, and recent dental work such as fillings or a cleaning, which can cause short-term sensitivity.

What helps at home

Use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth every day. It contains compounds that block the pain signal, and it usually needs several uses before it works (ADA). Cleveland Clinic also suggests dabbing a little on the sore spot before bed.
Switch to a soft-bristled brush and brush gently.
Cut down on acidic foods such as citrus and pickles.
If you use a whitening product, ask your dentist about safer options.

When to see a dentist

Book a dentist if the sensitivity keeps coming back, or the pain is sharp or doesn't go away (Cleveland Clinic). Go sooner if toothache lasts more than 2 days, doesn't settle with painkillers, or comes with a high temperature, pain when you bite, red gums, a bad taste or a swollen cheek or jaw (NHS). A dentist can find the cause and may use fluoride gel to strengthen the enamel, bonding, a crown or an inlay to repair a worn or decayed area, a gum graft to cover an exposed root, or a root canal for severe pain that persists (ADA). Our guides to bleeding gums and tooth decay cover two common causes.

Emergency signs

Go to a hospital emergency department, or call Rescue 1122 or Edhi 115, if the area around your eye or your neck is swollen, or if swelling in your mouth or neck makes it hard to breathe, swallow or speak (NHS).

Sources

General health information from the DoctorOS Team, not a diagnosis. For advice about your own situation, see a doctor.