When the Weather Turns Cold, Your Smile Feels It Too
As Calgary’s temperatures drop, many people start to notice small but uncomfortable changes — dry lips, sensitive teeth, or even a sore jaw after breathing cold air. Winter can be hard on your oral health, especially if you’re spending more time indoors with dry air or breathing through your mouth.
While these seasonal habits may seem harmless, they can quietly affect your teeth and gums. The good news? With a few mindful adjustments, you can keep your smile healthy and comfortable all winter long.
Why Winter Affects Oral Health
Winter brings several environmental changes that can impact your mouth — both indoors and outdoors:
- Cold air: The sudden exposure to cold air can make sensitive teeth react sharply.
- Dry indoor heat: Calgary’s low humidity and indoor heating can dry out the mouth, leading to reduced saliva flow.
- Mouth breathing: Whether from a stuffy nose or cold-weather exercise, breathing through your mouth can increase dryness and irritate gums.
All these factors can contribute to issues like sensitivity, dryness, or minor inflammation.
Common Winter-Related Dental Issues
Tooth Sensitivity
Cold air and hot drinks are a tough combination for sensitive teeth. If your enamel is thin or your gums have slightly receded, temperature changes can expose tiny openings that lead directly to the tooth’s nerves.
Using a toothpaste designed for sensitivity and brushing gently with a soft-bristled brush can make a noticeable difference. If sensitivity lingers, it’s worth mentioning at your next dental visit to rule out underlying causes.
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Dry winter air, heaters, and mouth breathing can all contribute to a condition known as xerostomia, or dry mouth. When your mouth doesn’t produce enough saliva, it becomes easier for bacteria to multiply — leading to bad breath, cavities, or gum irritation.
To help reduce dryness:
- Sip water regularly throughout the day.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you further.
- Chew sugar-free gum to encourage saliva production.
Cracked Lips and Irritated Gums
It’s not just your teeth that feel the chill — winter can also leave lips cracked and gums feeling sore or inflamed. Dehydration, cold winds, and constant heating can dry out soft tissues quickly.
Keep a hydrating lip balm handy and use a humidifier at home to restore moisture to the air. These small steps can make a big difference in your comfort.
How to Protect Your Smile This Winter
Taking care of your teeth during winter doesn’t require a major routine change — just a little extra awareness.
1. Stay Hydrated
Even when you don’t feel thirsty, cold weather can still dehydrate you. Water helps keep saliva flowing, supports your enamel, and washes away food particles and bacteria.
2. Use a Humidifier at Home
Indoor heating keeps you warm but also dries out the air. Adding moisture back into your home with a humidifier can prevent dry mouth and keep your gums comfortable.
3. Breathe Through Your Nose (When Possible)
If you often breathe through your mouth due to congestion or allergies, talk to your healthcare provider about ways to ease nasal blockage. Nasal breathing naturally humidifies the air before it reaches your mouth.
4. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing twice a day and flossing once daily are still your best defenses against winter oral health issues. Using fluoride toothpaste strengthens enamel and helps reduce sensitivity over time.
5. Schedule a Preventive Checkup
Winter is the perfect time for a routine dental visit — before the holiday rush and before any minor issues turn into bigger concerns. Regular checkups allow your dental team to catch early signs of sensitivity, dryness, or gum irritation.
When to See a Dentist
While mild sensitivity or dryness can often be managed at home, it’s a good idea to schedule a visit if you notice:
- Persistent or worsening tooth pain.
- Cracks in teeth or dental restorations.
- Bleeding or swollen gums.
- Ongoing dry mouth despite increased hydration.
Professional evaluation can help identify the cause and keep your smile healthy through the colder months.
Keep Your Smile Healthy This Winter
Calgary winters can be long and dry, but a few simple habits can help your teeth and gums stay strong all season. Staying hydrated, managing dry air, and keeping up with regular dental care are simple ways to prevent discomfort before it starts.
If it’s been a while since your last checkup, we’re here to help. 📞 Book your winter dental appointment with Skypointe Dental in Calgary NE today and keep your smile comfortable all season long.