If your child has been telling you that their teeth feel sensitive whenever they brush their teeth, or even just in general, it isn’t something that you should ignore. While it might not always seem serious or urgent, it’s possibly the sign of an underlying issue—not to mention, it causes discomfort for your little one! That said, you should want to understand the issue and know how to treat it so that your little one can quickly go back to happily smiling without irritation! Here’s more from your trusted pediatric dentist about what causes tooth sensitivity in children and some tips for addressing the issue.
Explaining Tooth Sensitivity
In many cases, tooth sensitivity does not have an obvious cause, and it can stem from a variety of things. It’s possible that it can result from the development of emerging adult teeth, which is something every child goes through. It’s also possible that it’s the result of enamel erosion, tooth decay, cavities, gum inflammation, or several other types of oral health issues that result from poor nutrition and lack of good oral hygiene.
It’s also possible for your child to sustain tooth damage which results in sensitivity. Even a sinus infection can cause the issue! Both quick detection and thorough treatment are crucial for ensuring that your child isn’t in discomfort for long and that no severe issues are given the chance to worsen.
Alleviating Tooth Sensitivity
Certain causes of tooth sensitivity can’t be entirely prevented; however, there are many ways you can help your little one manage their discomfort and alleviate their sensitivity. There are also professional treatments available designed to totally address the issue and protect the enamel layer of the teeth. In any case, consider the following tips for assisting your child with the issue at home:
- Oral hygiene is key; be sure that you’re encouraging your child to brush and floss daily, as a healthy mouth is far less likely to experience issues that might cause sensitivity.
- Certain kinds of toothpaste and toothbrushes are designed for sensitive teeth; your dentist can provide you with recommendations.
- Fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral added to many local tap water sources, can provide amazing oral health benefits such as encouraging the flow of saliva, which in turn will assist with oral sensitivity. Be sure your child is staying hydrated!
Remember, your child’s smile is an investment; helping them to keep things clean and problem-free early on will set them up for a lifetime of great oral health and fewer issues.
About the Practice
The team at Clear Coast Dental is thrilled to provide an exceptional level of service for patients and families in the New Bedford, MA area. They offer a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, restorative, and several other services, and they’d be more than happy to assist you and your family with achieving and maintaining excellent oral health. To schedule a visit or request additional information, please contact the website online or over the phone: (508) 500-1160.
