Wintertime Dental Health Tips: Protect Your Smile in Cold Weather
Winter can be harsh on your teeth and gums. Cold weather in wintertime may increase sensitivity and even lead to discomfort. Follow these expert tips to keep your smile bright and healthy all season long.
Dress your face and mouth for winter
Cold air can make sensitive teeth ache. Protect your smile by keeping your face and mouth warm — wear a scarf or face covering when you’re outdoors in winter.
Mind your jaw
When you're cold, it's natural to clench your jaw, which can lead to tooth wear and jaw muscle pain. Instead of tensing up, wrap up warmly and try to relax. A relaxed jaw helps prevent headaches as well as protecting your teeth.
Health alert: Jaw pain can sometimes signal more serious issues, so if your discomfort persists despite self-care, see your dentist or GP.
Stay hydrated, inside and out
Cold weather and dry indoor air can lead to dehydration, causing dry mouth, cracked lips and even mouth ulcers. Drinking plenty of water helps maintain saliva, which protects your teeth and gums.
Tip: Aim for 6–8 glasses (about 1.5–2 litres) of fluid a day — water is best for your teeth. You may need more if you’re active.
For more advice on a healthy routine, see our hygienist page.
Avoiding winter tooth pain
You can help prevent winter tooth pain by:
- Breathing through your nose rather than your mouth in cold weather.
- Using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth if cold air or drinks make your teeth sting.
- Booking regular dental check-ups so we can spot and treat sensitivity early.
- Keeping up with your daily dental hygiene routine.
What our patients say
I came to this dentist on the recommendation of a work colleague and some extra research.
I'm a really anxious person who is also neurodiverse, and after 10 years of not seeing a dentist, I had severe buildup on my teeth, inflamed, red gums and cavities. I was embarrassed to smile. I was embarrassed to have conversations with o…Read full review
I came to this dentist on the recommendation of a work colleague and some extra research.
I'm a really anxious person who is also neurodiverse, and after 10 years of not seeing a dentist, I had severe buildup on my teeth, inflamed, red gums and cavities. I was embarrassed to smile. I was embarrassed to have conversations with other people because I didn't want them to notice my teeth.
The whole team have been nothing but kind, welcoming, and understanding. They all really, really listened to me and my experience. They explained each step that needed to be taken, in detail, answered all of my questions really well, and ensured I wasn't in pain or anxious.
I was also able to use my own coping mechanisms (fidget rings, worry stones, hand fidgeting), and I wasn't judged. That's how it should be, and thank you for setting an example.
It's quiet and genuinely a really nice, calm atmosphere. And because it's a calm, quiet practice, it doesn't feel like you're on a timer.I didn't feel pressured by anyone for anything regarding treatment, and have been kindly but firmly re-educated on important aspects or oral health.
They will also send you plenty of reminders and confirmations, which has been super helpful for me to manage my time and prioritise myself and my teeth.
A huge thank you to Dr. Rikki, Dr. Anna, and the rest of the team who made me feel like it was possible to get my smile back. My confidence has increased tenfold, and I would do it all again (but hopefully not).
I've been going to this dentist for almost a year now initially it was just to clean my teeth and do regular check ups and I was really happy with how kind everyone was and the quality of the treatments. After a while I wanted to do teeth whitening but didn't know anything about it or the process. I had a consultation with them …
Read full review
I've been going to this dentist for almost a year now initially it was just to clean my teeth and do regular check ups and I was really happy with how kind everyone was and the quality of the treatments. After a while I wanted to do teeth whitening but didn't know anything about it or the process. I had a consultation with them and they ran through the treatment, cost and everything I needed to know. After a few weeks of using the gels my teeth were considerably whiter and I was receiving compliments from my family and friends on my smile. After a while they suggested I consider veneers for two pegs on the top of my teeth, they also do a monthly instalment and after a few weeks considering it I decided to do it and was very happy with the results. It looks very natural and matches my teeth perfectly and made me a lot more confident with my smile and was getting compliments from a lot of people shortly after getting it done. Would definitely recommend coming here everyone is very welcoming, friendly and professional and I've never had any complaints with any of the treatments
I had been suffering with pain for a few weeks from my wisdom tooth. But unable to get into my usual dental surgery for over a month.
Found an appointment for same day. And due to being anxious about dentist I was worried about going.
When I arrived the staff greeted me and eased my nerves.
During the consultant the dentist and …Read full review
I had been suffering with pain for a few weeks from my wisdom tooth. But unable to get into my usual dental surgery for over a month.
Found an appointment for same day. And due to being anxious about dentist I was worried about going.
When I arrived the staff greeted me and eased my nerves.
During the consultant the dentist and staff made me felt at ease. Went through each step and then went through treatment options. Needed to have the tooth removed. The nurse and dentist were amazing. Comforted me and also allowed to have my mum in the room with me. They went through the procedure with my and then my after care afterwards. I would definitely recommend to anywho is nervous about going to the dentist like me.
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