If your child has informed you that one or more of their teeth has been feeling extra sensitive lately, it’s certainly not something you should ignore! Teeth are important, and if something feels off with even just one of them, it’s always best to seek help in order to prevent things from worsening—and as a parent, it’s up to you to get your child the help they need! Continue reading to learn a little more from your child’s pediatric dentist about tooth sensitivity, how it’s caused, and how it can ultimately be prevented.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
A lot of times, tooth sensitivity doesn’t have an obvious cause and can be the result of numerous different things. Sometimes, it can result from the development of an emerging tooth, and given that every child goes through the teething process, this is fairly common. Other times, tooth sensitivity can result from enamel erosion, tooth decay, gum inflammation, or other oral issues that result from poor oral hygiene and/or an unhealthy diet. It’s also possible for your child to sustain tooth damage which results in sensitivity, or to acquire a sinus issue that causes it.
How Can Tooth Sensitivity Be Treated?
In any case, quick detection and treatment are crucial for ensuring that your child isn’t in discomfort for too long! There are various types of professional treatments available designed to address the issue and protect the enamel layer of the teeth, including fluoride treatments. However, there are also many ways you can help your little one manage their discomfort at home, including:
- Excellent oral hygiene at home is imperative; be sure that you’re encouraging your child to brush and floss daily. A healthy mouth is far less likely to encounter sensitivity issues, period.
- Certain kinds of toothpaste and toothbrushes are designed for sensitive teeth; your pediatric dentist can provide you with some good recommendations.
- Fluoride, which is a naturally occurring mineral added to many local tap water sources, can provide amazing oral health benefits. That’s why it’s used by professionals to treat dental sensitivity in some cases. It also encourages the mouth’s flow of saliva, which can help with cavity prevention. Be sure that your child is staying hydrated—a refillable water bottle can help with this!
Your child’s smile is important—far too important to let them needlessly suffer from dental sensitivity! That said, if your little one has voiced concerns about sensitive teeth, follow these tips and give their dentist a call to help set them up for a future of healthy, happy smiling.
About the Practice
Our team here at Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is excited to provide patients and families in the Nashua, NH community with an unrivaled level of care! We’re pleased to offer a wide range of services, including emergency pediatric dentistry! If you have any questions about the blog or you need to schedule an appointment for your child, don’t hesitate to contact us online or over the phone for assistance. Telephone: (603) 605-1094.