Children aren’t known for being enthusiastic about proper oral hygiene, but it’s important for them to begin brushing and flossing as soon as they are able to do so. If your child is not cleaning their mouth properly, it is quite likely for them to develop nasty oral infections or dental damage that can be quite uncomfortable. Here’s a quick look at why children may experience dental sensitivity, what you can do about it, and how your family’s pediatric dentist can help.
How Can Children Develop Dental Sensitivity?
Kids tend to like sugary and acidic items like candy and soda pop, and these sweet treats can feed harmful oral bacteria and erode the protective layer of enamel that keeps their teeth strong and healthy. Children may also not understand that their teeth can be damaged, so it’s possible for them to crack, chip, or wear away their enamel with aggressive chewing or bad habits like using their teeth to open packages. A few common causes of dental sensitivity in children include:
- Enamel damage: Thin, chipped, or cracked enamel can make teeth especially sensitive.
- Gum inflammation: Gum tissue that is irritated due to infection, injury, or chemical exposure can make chewing uncomfortable.
- Dental injuries: Blows to the face or mouth can lead to injuries of or inflammation around the dental roots.
How Can I Address Dental Sensitivity at Home?
Dental sensitivity often goes away on its own, and you may be able to reduce your child’s discomfort until then with a few effective home treatment methods. These can include:
- Desensitizing toothpaste: Some brands of toothpaste contain ingredients that can temporarily reduce dental discomfort.
- Feeding them a mild diet: If your child is experiencing dental sensitivity, it may be best to provide them with foods and beverages that are low in sugar, acid, and salt. It may also be a good idea to avoid giving them chewy or crunchy foods.
- Over-the-counter pain medication: Administer according to the instructions printed on the label.
- Floss: Having your child floss may dislodge a nasty bit of debris and immediately resolve their discomfort.
How Can My Dentist Help?
If your child’s dental sensitivity doesn’t go away after about a day, schedule them for an appointment at their pediatric dentist’s office. After a brief examination, your family’s oral health practitioner will be able to determine the source of the problem and design an effective treatment plan. They’ll also be happy to provide you with detailed aftercare instructions so you can know how to keep your child comfortable while they are recovering.
About the Practice
Kemper Meadow Family Dentistry offers the finest dental care in Cincinnati. Led by Drs. Kulwin, Maric, and Laungani, the staff treats each patient with compassion and courtesy. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry for children and adults. If you are concerned about your child’s dental sensitivity, dial (513) 648-9900. To learn more about the practice, contact the staff online.