When it comes to kids’ health, dental care tends to be overlooked. However, children’s oral health is just as important as adults’ oral health. Pediatric dentistry provides care for children’s dental problems from infancy through the teenage years.
Below are highlighted some common dental problems that affect kids, and why it is important to care for them on time.
Common Oral Health Problems in Children
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay, or cavities, is one of the most common dental issues in children. Tooth decay is caused by eating too many sugary foods, avoiding brushing teeth, or not having dental check-ups. The mouth has bacteria that eat sugars, and while they do so, they produce acids that break down tooth enamel. If left untreated, cavities can lead to pain, infection, and even affect the growing permanent teeth. Prevention of tooth decay through regular brushing and flossing, as well as limiting sugar intake, is very effective.
Tooth Sensitivity
Many kids experience tooth sensitivity when they eat or drink something hot, cold, or sweet. Tooth sensitivity can occur due to issues such as thinning enamel, cavities, or grinding teeth during the night. Sensitive teeth can make eating uncomfortable and may indicate a more serious problem. A pediatric dentist can identify the type of pain your child may be experiencing and prescribe toothpaste and treatment options to minimise the discomfort.
Early Tooth Loss
If baby teeth are lost too early, this can lead to surrounding teeth shifting into the empty areas that were occupied by the baby teeth, resulting in the permanent teeth coming in crooked or at least not being in an optimal position. There are multiple reasons why a child can lose baby teeth, including tooth decay, trauma, or gum disease. If they do lose their baby teeth too soon, the dentist might intervene with a space maintainer, allowing for spacing while the adult tooth erupts.
Bad Breath
Bad breath is another concern that can affect children. Bad breath can be temporary in some cases due to poor oral hygiene or some foods, or bad breath could be a better indicator of a current dental issue, such as gum infection, or dry mouth. Teaching kids proper brushing and flossing of teeth, along with having teeth regularly cleaned, can help manage and prepare for their continued healthy mouth.
Misaligned Teeth
Crooked or crowded teeth are common as children grow. Misalignment could be the result of genetics or habits such as thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use. Misaligned teeth negatively impact the aesthetic quality of a child's smile and can lead to multiple other issues, such as speech impairment, inability to chew normally, or increased chances of tooth decay. It is a good idea to undergo orthodontic exams so that you know if your children need braces or other orthodontic care.
Conclusion
Children's teeth go through a number of changes as they grow, and early dental issues can impact their full oral health in the long run. Not only is preventive care important, but regular dental visits, good brushing and flossing practices, and a healthy, balanced diet are essential from a young age. By learning about some of the common dental problems and learning to prevent them, parents can help their children maintain a healthy smile and a strong sense of confidence for a lifetime. Take your children to the World of Dentistry to learn about your children's oral health and get personalised recommendations.