What Parents Should Know About Tooth Sensitivity in Children

If your children suffer from overly sensitive teeth, it can make life a lot less fun. Tooth sensitivity can cause pain, trouble chewing and speaking, and can even make breathing uncomfortable. When the enamel of the teeth begins to wear down, the nerves become exposed, resulting in tooth sensitivity. This is what causes the pain and discomfort.

Easing the Pain Caused by Tooth Sensitivity

There are a few ways for parents to help children with sensitive teeth. If your child is complaining of tooth pain in multiple teeth, tooth sensitivity may be the culprit. Below are a few ways you can help your child ease pain caused by sensitive teeth:

• Switch Toothpaste – There are several types of toothpaste specially formulated for those with sensitive teeth. Before purchasing any type of sensitive toothpaste, make sure it contains strontium chloride or potassium nitrate. These ingredients help to block the pain signals to the nerves in your child’s teeth.
• Replace Toothbrush – Your child’s toothbrush should be replaced every 3-4 months anyway. However, if he or she is starting to complain of sensitive teeth, you may want to consider switching immediately. Your children should be brushing with soft-bristled toothbrushes, or brushes specially made for those with tooth sensitivities.
• Keep a Flare-Up Journal – It’s a good idea to keep a journal of when your child has flare-ups of sensitive teeth. This will help you keep track of what foods or situations tend to cause your child’s pain to worsen. Once you know the patterns, you can help your child avoid the things that exacerbate his or her pain.
• Visit Our Office – Lastly, if you’ve tried all of the above things and your child is still complaining of tooth sensitivity, please visit Little Rockies Pediatric Dentistry. We can help you learn more about tooth sensitivity and can help ease your child’s pain associated with sensitive teeth.

Here at Little Rockies Pediatric Dentistry, it’s important to us that our little patients are happy and comfortable. If your children are suffering from tooth sensitivity, please make an appointment at our Parker, Colorado child’s dental office today.