Dental care practices change as a person grows. While most pediatric dental concerns match those of an adult’s, a child’s teeth are still in the developmental stage. Gaining awareness of the common dental issues will help you and your child prevent and manage these dental issues before they develop into more severe cases.
- Tooth decay
Along with asthma and chickenpox, tooth decay is one of the most prevalent concerns among all pediatric health issues. It is typically caused by overindulgence in food rich in sugar and starch combined with poor oral hygiene. Dental caries (or tooth decay) forms when sugar interacts with bacteria, forming acids that attack the enamel of the teeth, eventually causing permanent damage. Children’s teeth are notably more sensitive than those of adults, so it’s important to promote proper oral health care habits to prevent tooth decay. Dentists recommend brushing twice a day for at least two minutes a day, first thing in the morning and before turning in for the night. Consider looking through flavored fluoride toothpaste to encourage children to brush more often. Prepare a calcium-rich diet for stronger teeth and jaw.
- Pediatric gum disease.
While gingivitis and other forms of gum disease are more commonly seen in adults, children can also experience these dental concerns. Spot the signs of gingivitis in your child by looking out for swollen or puffy gums, a dark red discoloration, and bleeding. If you see these indicators, bring them to a dental consultation immediately.
- Tooth misalignment.
Orthodontic issues in children can stem from various reasons. Misalignment can be caused by genetics or by excessive thumb-sucking and pacifier use. It can also occur naturally as they lose their baby teeth. Complications from tooth misalignment can result in headaches, pain, and jaw issues overtime, so it’s best to resolve their bite issues ahead of time. Pay a visit to a bite specialist to know the best treatment suitable for your child’s issue.
- Dental anxiety.
Fear of visiting the dentist is one of the major challenges in pediatric dentistry. As parents, it’s normal to think twice about putting your children in uncomfortable situations. However, delaying the necessary check-ups and treatments could be detrimental to their health. Ease your children’s fears by avoiding any negative language in relation to a dentist visit. Make time to drop by the clinic to help them get familiarized in the area. Discuss their treatment in simple explanations, preferably with the assistance of the dental team. Take it a step further by bringing them to your personal appointment to show them that it’s not something to be scared about.
- Tooth sensitivity.
An unhealthy diet and poor brushing habits can cause the enamel in children’s teeth to wear out early. Without this protective layer, they might experience increased tooth sensitivity. While there are specialty products and treatments to help preserve enamel, there is no procedure to completely replace it as of yet. The best move is to make preventive measures such as providing a balanced diet, teaching them proper oral hygiene, and making regular visits to their dentist.
Stay on top of your child’s oral health through preventive measures. Keep them on a balanced diet and impart proper oral hygiene. Most importantly, don’t miss any dental appointments to ensure that everything is in check. For more information, schedule a consultation at the American Dental Clinic today.
