Why Does Your Tooth Hurt When You Drink Something Cold?

Why Does Your Tooth Hurt When You Drink Something Cold?

By Dr. Cohen — Mission Viejo, South Orange County Many patients here in Mission Viejo tell me the same thing:

“Every time I take a sip of cold water, I feel a sharp shock in my tooth.”

If this happens to you, it’s not something to ignore. Your teeth are sending you a message, and there are a few common reasons behind this sudden sensitivity.

A Cracked Tooth

A cracked tooth can expose the inner layers, making the tooth extremely sensitive to temperature changes.This often happens when:

• You previously had a large filling 

• You bit down on something unexpectedly hard, like a popcorn kernel 

Even small cracks can create a sudden, sharp pain when cold liquid touches the tooth. Cracked teeth are one of the more common causes of cold sensitivity that I diagnose in the office.

A Dental Abscess

If the nerve inside a tooth becomes infected, you may feel sensitivity, pressure, or a lingering “shock” sensation.

An abscess is a more serious issue and should be evaluated promptly.

Patients often come in with cold sensitivity that turns out to be infection-related, so it’s important not to ignore ongoing symptoms.

Root Sensitivity

Sometimes the issue is simply exposed roots.

This can happen from gum recession or natural wear over time.

In some cases, this type of sensitivity is normal — and in others, it’s a sign that something needs attention.

What I Recommend

A good first step is to try an over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste, such as Sen

sodyne. Many patients experience relief within a couple of weeks.

However, if the sensitivity persists, worsens, or is limited to a specific tooth, it’s essential to schedule an evaluation. That allows me to determine whether the cause is a crack, an abscess, or root-related sensitivity — and recommend the right treatment.

If you’re experiencing cold sensitivity and live in Mission Viejo or South Orange County, feel free to contact our office. We’re here to help you get clarity — and relief.

Our dental office is located at 27871 Medical Center Rd, Mission Viejo, CA 92691, where preventive care and personalized guidance are part of routine dental visits.