Sensitive teeth can be extremely uncomfortable for kids, making it difficult for them to eat hot and cold foods and to brush and floss without pain. A dental care professional should always see a child with sensitive teeth to promptly address the problem and minimize pain. Learn about some of the common causes of teeth sensitivity in children to know when yours should see a dentist.

Why Are Your Child's Teeth Sensitive?

1. Cavities

Cavities form when oral bacteria interact with food, creating a corrosive acid that eats away at the surface of teeth. The acid forms small holes in the enamel, which is the first stage of a cavity. From there, the cavity penetrates more deeply into the tooth, affecting the layer of dentin under the enamel. Dentin has tiny tubules that relay signals to the nerve, so when cavities reach this stage, they’re more prone to sensitivity and pain. Cavities don’t go away on their own and must always be treated by a dentist.

2. Poor Dental Care Habits

Proper dental care prevents tooth sensitivity and other oral health issues. A child who brushes too vigorously may think they're polishing their teeth to a shine, but in reality, they could be wearing away the protective enamel or diminishing the gumline, both of which can result in sensitivity. Neglecting to floss can also cause sensitivity from plaque buildup and cavities between the teeth and closer to the gumline. Impart proper oral hygiene techniques to your child, and check that they brush and floss at least twice daily.

3. Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is a condition in which a person forcefully clenches or scrapes their teeth together, often unconsciously during sleep. Since children's teeth are smaller and more fragile than adult teeth, bruxism can wear away enamel and, in more serious cases, lead to tiny cracks and exposure of the nerve endings. If a dentist determines that teeth grinding is the cause of sensitivity, your child may need to wear a mouthguard at night to protect their teeth.

If your child has sensitive teeth, seek a solution from the pediatric dentists at Pedodontic Associates. They’ve provided dental care services to young patients on Oahu and Maui for more than 25 years. They have three locations to better serve you, and their practice is specifically focused on the oral health needs of infants, children, and adolescents. Call (808) 735-1733 or visit them online to schedule an exam with a kids' dentist today.