Here are some simple things you can do if your child has sensitive teeth.
The pain of sensitive teeth is bad enough for adults. Now imagine being a child and having to deal with that kind of discomfort. This is something that no parent wants for their child, but they may not understand how to deal with sensitivity when it arises. Fortunately, there are many easy fixes a parent can try out to get their child feeling right again. The most effective of them can be found below. Of course, if all else fails, you can always speak with a dentist for more information.
Make Sure There Are No Severe Issues
Sometimes sensitivity is caused by minor problems. Other times, it is indicative of more severe issues. If your child’s teeth are extremely sensitive, that could mean cavities or severe gum disease. The best way to find out is by talking to a St. Louis pediatric dentist. Once you know, you can make an informed decision on a treatment plan going forward.
Choosing the Right Toothpaste
Toothpaste brands that are marketed to people with sensitive teeth have recently become household names. The reason for this is the number of people who have issues with oral pain. These people are finding relief with desensitizing toothpaste, and your child might too.
Establish a Regular Brushing and Flossing Routine
Though it might seem counter-intuitive, bleeding from brushing and flossing often comes from not brushing and flossing enough. The reason is that having a responsible oral care routine strengthens your teeth and gums, making them more resistant to pain. This means that your child’s pain could be a result of a poor brushing and flossing routine.
Watch For Hard Brushing
One thing you child might be doing is brushing too hard. Kids, and people in general, often get overzealous with their oral care and end up harming themselves. To protect against this, brush your teeth alongside your child for a few nights in a row. When you do, pay attention to how hard they brush. If they are brushing improperly, give them a few pointers on how to do it better.
Improve Diet
There are two factors that make certain foods and drinks bad for oral health: Acidity and sugar. If whatever your child is consuming has one or both of these, you should make dietary changes. A few of the common culprits are soda, sports drinks, orange juice, and candy.
Obtain Professional Desensitizing Remedies
There are a few remedies you can find at your local St. Louis pediatric dentist. The most common treatment is the application of desensitizing gel. This gel is a lot like what is found in sensitive teeth toothpaste but in a much higher dose. The dentist may apply this substance as a varnish after your child’s regular checkup and cleaning.
While the most extreme sensitivity cases are best handled by a dentist, there is an excellent chance you can solve your child’s issues with a couple of simple lifestyle changes. Speak with an experienced dentist if your child is complaining about sensitive teeth.