Dentist in Richardson, TX
Live Chat Software

What does it mean if my child's teeth are sensitive to hot or cold?

When sensitivity to temperature occurs in a child’s teeth, it can be due to dental decay, a broken tooth, a crack in a tooth, or it can happen when a permanent tooth is trying to erupt. A visit to your pediatric dentist will result in an accurate diagnosis and treatment to relieve discomfort.

Very often a fluoride treatment may be recommended to help alleviate the problem. If the discomfort is the result of exposed dental nerves, painting a fluoride varnish directly to the root surface may bring relief quickly.

The tooth is covered with a hard protective shell called enamel. When this covering is breached, the layer underneath the protection is exposed. The nerve of the tooth is located within the root of the tooth, and when the protective layer of enamel has been penetrated (due to trauma like a broken tooth or dental decay) the nerve reacts to hot or cold resulting in a zinging sensation that is very uncomfortable.

Children are very susceptible to dental decay primarily because the minerals in their young teeth that help protect teeth from decay are not very strong. Dental decay occurs when bacteria are allowed to build on teeth. The acids in bacteria eat through the protective enamel layer resulting in a cavity.

Prevention is always better than having to react to a problem. Teaching your child the best way to care for their teeth will be rewarded for their lifetime.

Your child needs to brush at least twice every day. Once they have reached the age where there is no longer a concern for them swallowing toothpaste, they should be using a fluoridated toothpaste.

Dental floss is not just for adults either, as removing debris from between teeth and around the gums is important for children too.

Visits to a pediatric dentist should commence around the age of twelve months. Parents can learn how to care for their child’s teeth as well as the pitfalls to avoid that promote dental decay.

There are preventative measures that can be taken including fluoride to protect young teeth. Dental sealants can be painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth not already affected by decay that provide a barrier to prevent bacteria from permeating dental enamel.

If sensitivity does occur get an accurate diagnosis with appropriate treatment to relieve discomfort.

Contact our caring team at Richardson Dentistry today to set up an appointment for your child!