Having sensitive teeth can be frustrating, especially when you're young and have a taste for sweets! From not being able to enjoy your favorite foods to having to take various precautions, taking care of their dental hygiene can be a little tricky for a little one. You can expect lots of whining, especially when Halloween or another holiday rolls around.
Most kids are already naturally reluctant to practice oral care, and sensitive teeth can make this even worse. So how do you convince a child to brush their teeth when just touching their teeth with a toothbrush hurts?
If your kid has sensitive teeth, here are some steps you should take.
It is very rare for a kid to develop tooth sensitivity. Most people don't get sensitivity issues until they're well into their 20s. Therefore, figuring out the cause behind the tooth sensitivity will help you address the situation more effectively. Following are some of the main reasons a child may have sensitive teeth.
A lack of proper oral hygiene could lead to the erosion of the tooth enamel, resulting in sensitivity in the teeth.
If your child recently bit a hard candy, it could have caused the dentin to be exposed to bacteria. This can also cause the teeth to become sensitive.
Chipped or cracked teeth due to injury can also cause tooth sensitivity as it may expose nerves within the tooth to food, bacteria, and cold/hot temperatures.
It is possible that a child who has Autism may be sensitive to the feeling of brushing their teeth or even the taste of their toothpaste. This may lead to them avoiding these activities. If your kid has Autism, it may help to have a discussion with them about how they feel about practicing oral hygiene.
After you've figured out the root cause, you can address the issue accordingly. It is also essential to encourage healthy oral hygiene habits to prevent the sensitivity from returning in the future.
In addition, regular dental appointments can help prevent any oral issues that may lead to sensitivity. If you don't already take your kid for routine appointments, visit Little Smiles Of Delaware in Delaware, OH, for a consultation today.