Dental sensitivity can be quite frustrating and uncomfortable, so you’re probably interested in how the problem can be resolved if your child is struggling with this issue. Luckily, there are a number of home remedies and over-the-counter pharmaceutical products that can reduce dental sensitivity, and your pediatric dentist will be more than happy to treat the problem if necessary. Here’s a brief guide to why children may experience dental sensitivity and what you can do about it.
What Causes Dental Sensitivity in Children?
The most common cause of dental sensitivity in children is poor oral hygiene. While baby teeth have thicker layers of enamel than adult teeth, kids are not known for their eagerness to comply with their dentists’ instructions for proper dental cleaning. This can set them up for tooth decay that leaves the inner structures of their teeth more vulnerable to pressure, temperature shifts, and other stressors. A few common factors behind children’s dental sensitivity include:
- Poor brushing habits: Your child should brush their teeth for two minutes at a time while taking care to carefully clean each of the outer surfaces of their teeth with gentle, short, circular strokes. While your child should do this at least twice a day, brushing between meals is an excellent habit.
- Lack of flossing: Flossing is every bit as important to your child’s oral health as brushing. Have your kid do this at least once a day.
- Enamel erosion: Kids love soda and juice, and these beverages are rich with sugar and acid that can wear away the enamel that keeps their teeth strong and comfortable.
- Sinus infections: Sinus inflammation can put pressure on the upper teeth, making them uncomfortably sensitive.
- The adult teeth coming in: The developing adult teeth can put pressure on the baby teeth and cause discomfort.
How Can I Address My Child’s Dental Sensitivity?
Luckily, there are a number of great ways to help your child’s teeth feel more comfortable. A few of these include:
- Helping your child improve their oral hygiene habits: Make sure they are brushing and flossing every day.
- Using over-the-counter products: Desensitizing toothpaste can be an excellent way to reduce dental sensitivity. You can also try topical oral analgesics and over-the-counter pain medication.
- Reducing your child’s intake of sugar and acid: Having your child cut down on their consumption of sweets and acidic foods and beverages can slow the rate of bacterial reproduction in their mouth and give their enamel some time to remineralize.
- Seeing your pediatric dentist for help: Your dentist may recommend reinforcing your child’s enamel with fluoride treatment or repairing decay with restorative work.
Don’t let dental sensitivity make your child less willing to smile. Consulting with your dentist will help you find the best way to keep their teeth healthy, strong, and comfortable.
About the Practice
G&G Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics offers the finest oral health services for children in Naperville. Led by Drs. Nicole and Cory, the staff ensures that each patient receives effective care and sincere compassion in a warm and kid-friendly environment. Areas of expertise include pediatric general, restorative, and emergency dentistry as well as orthodontics. To learn more about addressing your child’s dental sensitivity, contact the office online or dial (630) 778-9500.
