Tooth Sensitivity to Cold: Causes, Fixes, and When It’s a Bigger Problem

Cold sensitivity is common, but it shouldn’t be ignored—especially if it’s sharp, getting worse, or focused on one tooth. Sometimes it’s a simple issue like exposed dentin from recession. Other times it’s a sign of a crack, decay, or a bite problem that needs treatment.

The 2 types of sensitivity that matter

1) Quick zing that fades fast (seconds): Often related to exposed dentin, mild recession, whitening, or early enamel wear.
2) Lingering pain (30+ seconds) or throbbing: More concerning. Can point to deeper irritation, decay, a crack, or a nerve issue.

Most common causes of cold sensitivity

Gum recession and exposed root surfaces

When gums recede, root surfaces can become exposed. Roots don’t have the same protective enamel as the crown of the tooth, so cold can trigger nerve endings quickly.

Enamel wear from grinding or clenching

Clenching and grinding can wear down enamel and create microfractures. If you’ve noticed jaw tightness, headaches, or wear, TMJ-related strain can overlap with sensitivity. This is part of why TMJ/TMD dentistry can matter even when the symptom feels like “just a tooth.”

Cavities or leaking old fillings

Decay or gaps around older restorations allow temperature changes to reach deeper layers of the tooth. This is a common reason sensitivity is focused in one area.

Cracked tooth or “cracked tooth syndrome”

Small cracks can be hard to see, but they can cause sharp cold pain—especially when chewing or releasing your bite.

Recent whitening

Whitening can temporarily increase sensitivity, especially if you already had recession or enamel wear.

What you can do at home (for 10–14 days)

• Use a sensitivity toothpaste twice daily (don’t rinse heavily after brushing)
• Switch to a soft brush and lighten pressure
• Avoid acidic drinks (soda, citrus, sports drinks) and frequent snacking
• Pause whitening until symptoms calm down
• If you grind/clench, avoid chewing ice or hard foods that add stress

If symptoms improve quickly, the cause is often mild exposure or inflammation. If they don’t, it usually means there’s an underlying structural problem.

When sensitivity means you need an exam

Book an evaluation if you have any of these:

• Sensitivity in one specific tooth that’s getting worse
• Lingering pain after cold
• Pain when chewing or when you release your bite
• A visible chip, crack line, or a filling that feels “off”
• Sensitivity paired with swelling, bad taste, or gum pimple

An exam can determine whether the fix is preventive (desensitizing plan), protective (appliance, bonding), or restorative.

Common in-office solutions

Depending on the cause, treatment may include:

• Fluoride or desensitizing treatments for exposed dentin
• Bonding to cover exposed areas
• Adjusting bite overload when one tooth is taking too much force
• Replacing a leaking filling or restoring decay
• Crowns or other restorations for cracked teeth

If a tooth is structurally compromised, care often falls under restorative dentistry to protect the tooth and prevent bigger problems.

When to schedule

If sensitivity lasts more than two weeks, is worsening, or is isolated to one tooth, schedule a visit. Use the contact page to request an appointment, and review About the Doctor if you want to understand Dr. Baier’s advanced training and approach before your first visit.