Like adults, children and teens can experience tooth sensitivity, which may be marked by tingling, stinging or even painful sensations. Our Langley dentists list reasons your child or teen's teeth may be sensitive and how this issue can be addressed.
Children & Teens Can Have Sensitive Teeth
Dentin is a porous tissue under the tooth enamel that houses microscopic channels, or tubules.
If these pathways to the nerve are exposed due to loss of enamel or receding gum tissue, stimuli such as brushing the teeth, hot or cold temperatures or, in some cases, sugary snacks, can lead to tooth sensitivity.
When tooth discomfort is immediate but subsides soon after the trigger is removed, the tooth is considered sensitive.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity in Children & Teens
There is a wide range of potential causes for tooth sensitivity in children and teens, including:
- Poor brushing habits and dental hygiene
- Erosion of enamel
- Sinus infections and other issues
- Tooth damage such as chips or cracks
- Improper brushing techniques
- Silver tooth fillings
- Loose or cracked fillings
- Development of permanent teeth
- Puberty gingivitis
Treatment Options for Sensitive Teeth
While some causes of tooth sensitivity can be addressed proactively, such as maintaining good dental hygiene and excellent brushing habits, others cannot.
However, tooth sensitivity can be treated with the following methods:
- Make regular brushing part of your child's daily oral hygiene routine
- Restorative treatments including dental fillings or crowns for cavities, chips or cracks
- Use products such as high-quality toothpaste to address sensitivity and the right toothbrush for your child's mouth
- See your dentist regularly for professional dental checkups and have fluoride treatments to help protect and strengthen teeth