Teeth grinding, medically known as bruxism, involves the involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth, often occurring during sleep. This habit exerts tremendous force on dental structures, leading to a host of oral health problems. One common consequence is thermal hyperesthesia, or extreme sensitivity to cold stimuli. Bruxism is a recognized cause of heightened tooth sensitivity, directly impacting the protective layers of the tooth and exposing the underlying nerve structures. The repetitive contact between teeth creates a damaging environment that makes the mouth vulnerable to painful cold sensations.
The Connection Between Grinding and Sensitivity
Bruxism creates a strong link to cold sensitivity by mechanically wearing down the tooth’s outer layer, a process called attrition. The immense pressure from grinding causes the hard, protective enamel to thin and erode over time. This enamel layer acts as a natural insulator, shielding the inner parts of the tooth from temperature changes.
Once the enamel is worn away, the underlying dentin becomes exposed, which is the layer directly beneath the enamel. Dentin is composed of thousands of microscopic channels called dentin tubules that run from the outer tooth surface inward toward the pulp chamber. The pulp chamber contains the tooth’s nerve and blood vessels.
These dentin tubules are filled with fluid. When a cold stimulus touches the exposed dentin, it causes a rapid shift in this fluid, stimulating the nerve fibers within the pulp. This triggers a short, sharp, and painful sensation. Bruxism can also cause microscopic cracks, or microfractures, in the tooth structure, which act as additional pathways for cold stimuli to reach the pulp.
Identifying Symptoms of Grinding Damage
The physical damage caused by bruxism often leaves visible signs that accompany cold sensitivity. A dentist can observe flattened or worn chewing surfaces, sometimes called facets, on the tops of the teeth, characteristic of chronic grinding. In more severe cases, the teeth may appear chipped, fractured, or loose due to the excessive force.
Beyond the teeth themselves, bruxism puts significant strain on the muscles and joints of the jaw. Patients frequently report waking up with a sore jaw, a dull headache starting at the temples, or aching facial and neck muscles. This muscle soreness and jaw pain, which can be part of a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, often serve as indicators that teeth grinding is occurring.
Treating Cold Sensitivity Caused by Grinding
Treatment for the resulting cold sensitivity focuses on protecting the newly exposed dentin and blocking the communication pathway to the nerve.
Desensitizing Products
One common approach is the use of desensitizing toothpastes, which contain ingredients like potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride. These agents work by either calming the nerve or by physically plugging the openings of the dentin tubules, preventing fluid movement.
Restorative Procedures
A dental professional may apply in-office treatments such as fluoride varnish or dental sealants to the sensitive areas. Fluoride helps to strengthen the enamel and can aid in blocking the dentin tubules. For areas with significant enamel loss, a dentist may use dental bonding or restorative fillings to physically cover the damaged area. In severe cases of tooth wear, a crown may be necessary to fully cap and protect the entire tooth structure.
Managing Bruxism to Prevent Future Damage
Addressing the underlying habit of teeth grinding is crucial to prevent the recurrence of sensitivity and structural damage. Custom-fitted oral appliances, such as nightguards or splints, are frequently recommended to be worn during sleep. These devices create a physical barrier between the upper and lower teeth, absorbing the force and preventing tooth-on-tooth contact.
Management strategies also focus on reducing the psychological and physical factors that trigger the grinding habit. Since stress and anxiety are commonly linked to bruxism, relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help manage the underlying tension. In persistent cases, medical interventions may be considered, including the use of muscle relaxants or Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections into the jaw muscles to temporarily reduce their clenching strength.