Similar to adults, children and teens can also experience tooth sensitivity. This may be marked by stinging, tingling or even painful sensations. Our Burnaby dentists share reasons your child or teen's teeth may be sensitive and how we can address this issue.
Children & Teens Can Have Sensitive Teeth
Under the tooth enamel, there's a porous issue called dentin that contains tubules (microscopic channels).
If a person loses enamel or their gums recede, these pathways to the nerve are exposed and stimuli such as hot and cold temperatures, brushing the teeth or sugary snacks in some cases may result in tooth sensitivities.
When someone feels immediate tooth discomfort when one of these triggers is introduced but the discomfort subsides soon after the trigger is eliminated, the tooth is considered sensitive.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity in Children & Teens
Tooth sensitivity in children and teens can occur due to a variety of factors, including:
- Damage to teeth such as cracks or chips
- Erosion of enamel
- Puberty gingivitis
- Development of permanent teeth
- Silver tooth fillings
- Improper brushing techniques
- Sinus infections and other issues
- Cracked or loose fillings
Treatment Options for Sensitive Teeth
While you may be able to proactively address some causes of tooth sensitivity, such as maintaining good brushing habits and dental hygiene, others may need attention from both you and your dentist.
Here are some methods to address tooth sensitivity:
- Make regular brushing part of your child's daily oral hygiene routine
- Ask your dentist about restorative treatments
- See your dentist regularly for professional dental checkups and have fluoride treatments to help strengthen and protect teeth
- Use products such as high-quality toothpaste to address sensitivity and the right toothbrush for your child's mouth