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5 Causes of Tooth Sensitivity in Children

5 Causes of Tooth Sensitivity in Children
Posted on 06/14/2022
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Tooth sensitivity is not an experience that you want your child to have. It is an unpleasant tingling sensation that occurs when you chew or drink hot or cold foods. Due to the immense discomfort, this can make your child develop poor eating habits which will have a negative effect on their growth.

Early detection of tooth sensitivity provides a good prognosis because it allows early treatment which relieves the symptoms. This article explains the different causes of tooth sensitivity in children.

1. Poor Brushing Habits and Technique

As soon as your child's teeth start to show, it is important to establish a good routine on when to brush. When they brush their teeth, it not only protects their teeth but also their gums. You should also teach your child the best way to brush their teeth.

When they brush too softly, their teeth will not be clean enough. Conversely, when they do it roughly it leads to the destruction of the enamel because of excess friction. The friction can also damage their gums. This exposes the sensitive parts of their tooth which increases sensitivity. 

You should make sure that your child brushes their teeth approximately two times a day. The best technique of how to brush is to apply gentle, rotating pressure with a relatively soft toothbrush. It is best to teach them this technique early to avoid future problems.

2. Tooth Cavities

Cavities are holes that form on the surface of teeth. They form when pathogenic bacteria found in the mouth metabolize sugar materials located on the surface of teeth. The sugar results from food that your child eats. During metabolism, the bacteria release acid as a by-product that then acid corrodes teeth, thereby forming holes.

These holes destroy the enamel, which protects the dentin that overlies the nerve endings. Exposed dentin will result in tooth sensitivity. To avoid cavity formation, you should help your child maintain proper oral hygiene.

3. Sinus Infections

Sinuses are spaces in the skull that contain air. Sinusitis is whenever bacterial or viral infections occur in these spaces. Sinusitis leads to congestion of the sinuses which causes pressure to build. Because of the close proximity of the sinuses to the mouth, pressure build-up results in pain in the mouth. Tooth sensitivity and pain can also be symptoms of sinusitis. 

Also, infections can spread from the sinuses into the mouth which affects gums and teeth. If you suspect that your child has sinusitis, you should ensure prompt medical treatment and consider a dental checkup of their teeth to address any discomfort in the mouth.

4. Tooth Fillings

If your child had severe cavities that were restored with metal amalgam fillings, these fillings can cause tooth sensitivity in children. They expand and contract to apply pressure on teeth, which can result in cracks that expose the dentin. The metal conducts heat faster than the enamel, which makes teeth more sensitive to temperature changes.

5. Tooth Grinding

Your child can be prone to grind their teeth due to pain in other parts of the body, anxiety, and misaligned teeth. When they grind too much it may lead to enamel cracks which lead to pain as they chew. You should advise your child to resist this habit and try to find the cause in order to solve it. Also, if your child grinds their teeth at night, your dentist can tell you if your child would be a candidate for an oral appliance to help protect their teeth while sleeping.

If tooth sensitivity is normal in your child, you should seek the advice of a dentist immediately. Your dentist can offer different treatment plans which will help alleviate the problem. For the best treatment options, we are always here for you. Contact us at Treasured Smiles Pediatric Dentistry today for all your pediatric dental needs.

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