A child must have proper oral health for the body’s overall growth. If not seen early, it will cause them severe discomfort, alter their eating habits and even their way of communication, and become a constant nuisance to their bodies.
Below are some common dental problems seen in children and how to take preventive measures with practical tips.
Cavities (Tooth Decay)
- Causes ─ Common diseases that result in and affect children include tooth decay, cavities, or caries. Most of those attack children’s teeth and are products of bacterial activity in the oral cavity. These break down food, especially sugars and starches, undermining the teeth’ outer layer, known as enamel.
Prevention
- Good oral hygiene ─ Help your child learn to apply fluoride toothpaste, brush teeth in the mornings and just before sleeping at night, and floss once a day to do away with other food remains.
- Regular trips to the dentist ─ This will aid in professional cleaning and identify potential emergent issues early enough.
Causes ─ Gingivitis is the preliminary stage of the disease. It is characterized by swelling and reddening of the gums, which bleeds when using a dental probe. This results from poor dental hygiene because plaque forms along the gum line.
Prevention
- Proper brushing and flossing ─ Describe proper tooth washing up to the base of the gums and flossing by the child daily.
Thumb Sucking and Pacifier Use
Causes ─ If your child has been thumb sucking or using a pacifier for such a long time, it will impact the positioning of teeth and jaw formation.
Prevention
- Early intervention ─ Help your child to stop sucking their thumb and using a pacifier by three years of age. Praise and reward them for not using these items.
- Consult a dentist ─ If the habit persists, consult a family dentist for more advice. They may be able to recommend strategies or devices to help break habits.
Tooth Sensitivity
- Causes ─ Sensitivity in children’s teeth can result from the erosion of enamel or cavities and new teeth. It may be aching during hot, cold, or sweet food and drink intake.
Prevention
- Gentle brushing — Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and show your child the proper, gentle brushing that will not wear down enamel.
- Proper diet ─ Avoid the intake of acidic food and drinks at large, known to wear down the enamel. Encourage a balanced diet for total dental health.
- Regular tooth check-ups ─ Regular visits can help take timely identification and refraining steps against sensitivity in your teeth.
Dental Trauma
Causes ─ Children are very active and prone to accidents, so their teeth may chip, break off, or even get knocked out.
Prevention
- Protective gear ─ Ensure your child wears a mouthguard for any sport and other activities with some risk involved.
- Childproofing ─ Observe measures that childproof your home from falls and accidents.
Good oral health in children is the product of good hygiene, healthy dieting, frequent visits to the dentist, and timely intervention where possible remedies exist.
Being proactive regarding your child’s dental requirements means applying the best possible procedures to caution against many common dental issues of the day. It will set the bottom line for a lifetime of healthy smiles. After all, a fit mouth is a part of your child’s complete and happy health.
