Teeth Sensitivity

If you notice that your child's teeth hurt when they've eaten or drank something that is hot or cold they could have sensitive teeth. Teeth sensitivity happens when the root of a tooth, or the dentin, which is the middle layer under the enamel, is exposed.

Dentin is home to these tiny openings called tubules, and inside each of the tubules is a nerve branch that comes from the center of the tooth. When the dentin is unprotected, pressure and temperature affects the nerve branches and that is what is causing your child's teeth to hurt.

Sensitive teeth can happen for a variety of reasons including but not limited to; brushing teeth too hard, poor oral hygiene, untreated cavities, old fillings, or receding gums that expose the roots.

There are many ways to help your child deal with sensitive teeth. Specific toothpastes are made for sensitivity that begin to work within 1 to 10 weeks. You can also start by having your child use a soft bristled brush so that they are damaging less of the enamel on their teeth when they brush. Buying products like a mouthwash with fluoride that can help to strengthen the tooth’s surface are beneficial as well. Also try to keep your child away from acidic foods that erode teeth and cause sensitivity.

Make sure your child is visiting the dentist on a regular basis to ensure that it is nothing more severe than sensitivity. Also take your child to visit the dentist if a singular tooth is sensitive or if they have pain lasting more than an hour.