Just like adults, kids can suffer from tooth sensitivity, usually in response to hot or cold temperatures. The unpleasant sensation can leave your child uncomfortable and shying away from certain foods. By understanding the causes of tooth sensitivity and how to prevent it, you can help your child enjoy a happy, pain-free smile.

What Are the Causes of Sensitive Teeth in Children?

The following are the most common causes of tooth sensitivity in children:

Poor Oral Hygiene: Most causes of tooth sensitivity stem from poor oral hygiene. Without regular brushing and flossing, plaque and food debris left in the mouth can cause tooth decay or gum irritation, which can lead to tooth sensitivity. Make sure to start cleaning your baby’s gums even before the first tooth emerges, and continue regular brushing and flossing to keep that smile healthy and bright.

Cavities: Tooth decay can leave your child with tooth sensitivity, especially if large cavities make their way to the inner pulp. In fact, deep decay and cavities are the most common causes of tooth sensitivity in children.

Tooth Enamel Erosion: Consuming sugary and acidic foods and beverages can cause tooth enamel erosion, leaving your little one more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. Aggressive brushing habits can also lead to abrasion, damaging the tooth enamel and causing sensitive teeth.

Tooth Damage: Tooth cracks or chips resulting from injury or chronic teeth grinding can expose the nerves, leaving your child with painful, sensitive teeth. Wearing a protective mouthguard during contact sports can lower the risk of tooth damage and sensitivity.

Damaged Dental Fillings: A filling can sometimes become loose, cracked, or even fall out because of eating chewy, hard, or gummy foods. Damaged fillings can cause sensitivity to temperature changes and can be very uncomfortable if a tooth’s nerve becomes exposed.

New Teeth Erupting: When baby teeth fall out and new permanent ones emerge, children often experience increased sensitivity, which is perfectly normal. Once the mouth has adjusted to a new tooth, the sensitivity should subside. If your child complains of severe tooth pain or discomfort, it may be something other than a new tooth erupting. That warrants an evaluation by your trusted team at Smile Explorers Pediatric Dentistry.

After pinpointing the cause of the tooth sensitivity, we will recommend the best treatment to relieve your child’s discomfort. For example, filling a cavity or repairing a damaged restoration can eliminate the exposure of a tooth’s inner layers, alleviating your child’s symptoms. In some cases, we may recommend fluoride treatment to strengthen your child’s tooth enamel, so your child has fewer issues with tooth sensitivity.

It is essential to take a proactive approach to your child’s dental health by improving at-home oral hygiene practices. Encourage regular brushing and flossing, and make sure your little one uses proper techniques. In some cases, we may recommend special toothpaste made for sensitive teeth, which desensitizes the nerves within the root and alleviates the discomfort.

Quality Pediatric Dental Care Near Me in Glendale, AZ

If your child experiences tooth sensitivity, contact Smile Explorers Pediatric Dentistry today. Not only do sensitive teeth cause discomfort, but they can also be a sign of other oral health problems. Maintaining proper oral hygiene practices and seeking prompt treatment will ensure your child enjoys a healthy, happy smile. Call us and schedule your appointment today!