As parents, we only want the best for our children. This includes their oral health. Many of us are not aware that our children can also suffer from dental problems. This article will explore the common dental problems in children that you must know. From early childhood carries to teething, read on to learn more about how you can keep your child’s teeth healthy and sparkling.
Dental Decay
Dental decay is one of the most common dental problems in children. It is caused by bacteria that live in the mouth and produce acids that eat away at the tooth enamel. Over time, this can lead to cavities and other serious problems.
There are a few things you can do to help prevent dental decay in your child:
- Make sure they brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Encourage them to floss daily.
- Limit their use of sugary foods and beverages.
- Bring them in for routine cleanings and exams at the dentist.
Gum Disease
One of the most prevalent dental issues in youngsters is gum disease. Plaque accumulation on the gums and teeth is the root of the problem. Plaque is a sticky film of food and bacteria that forms on the teeth. If not removed, it can harden into tartar, which can irritate the gums and cause them to bleed. If gum disease is not treated, tooth loss may result.
Gum disease comes in two forms: gingivitis and periodontitis. The initial stage of gum disease is gingivitis. The gums may be red and swollen, and they may bleed when brushed. However, there is usually no pain at this stage. Periodontitis is the more advanced stage of gum disease. The gums may be very red, swollen, and tender. They may bleed easily, and there may be pus in between the teeth and gums. The teeth may also become loose at this stage.
Gum disease is treated by removing the plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums with a professional cleaning called scaling and root planing. In some cases, antibiotics may also be prescribed to help clear the infection.
Enamel Erosion
Enamel erosion is one of the most common dental problems in children. It occurs when the outer layer of the tooth, called the enamel, is worn away by acidic substances. This can happen from eating or drinking acidic foods and drinks, or from stomach acid coming up into the mouth. Enamel erosion can also occur from grinding your teeth or using a toothbrush that is too hard.
Symptoms of enamel erosion include:
- Sensitive teeth
- Visible pits or holes in the teeth
- Rough or uneven tooth surface
- Yellowing or discolouration of the teeth
If left untreated, enamel erosion can lead to tooth decay and eventually tooth loss. Therefore, it is important to seek treatment for enamel erosion as soon as possible. Treatment options include:
- Avoiding acidic foods and drinks
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush
- If you clench or grind your teeth at sleep, wear a mouthguard.
Malocclusion
Malocclusion refers to the misalignment of the teeth and jaws. It is one of the most common dental problems in children and can lead to several serious health problems if left untreated. Malocclusion can be caused by several factors, including genetics, thumb sucking, and injury to the teeth or jaws. Treatment for malocclusion typically involves wearing braces or other orthodontic devices to gradually realign the teeth and jaws.
Dental Trauma
Dental trauma can occur when a child’s tooth is knocked out, chipped, or fractured. It can also happen if the child bites their tongue or lip and bleeds. Dental trauma can be very painful for children, so it’s important to know how to deal with it.
If a child’s tooth is knocked out, you should find the tooth and rinse it off with water. Do not scrub the tooth or try to put it back in the socket. Instead, place the tooth in a cup of milk or water and call your dentist immediately.
If a child’s tooth is chipped or fractured, you should rinse their mouth out with water and call your dentist right away. If the child is bleeding from their tongue or lip, apply pressure to the area with a clean cloth to stop the bleeding. Call your dentist as soon as you can once more.
Dental trauma can be scary for both kids and parents, but knowing what to do can help make the situation less stressful.
White Spots on Teeth
White spots on teeth are one of the most common dental problems in children. They can be caused by several things, including plaque buildup, cavities, and enamel defects.
If your child has white spots on their teeth, it’s important to see a dentist so that the cause can be diagnosed and treated accordingly. Plaque buildup can usually be removed with professional cleaning, while cavities will require fillings or other treatments. Morever enamel defects may need to be addressed with veneers or other cosmetic dentistry procedures.
Teething
As your child’s first teeth start to come in, they may experience sore and tender gums. This is called teething, and it’s a normal part of development. There are several things you can do to help soothe your child’s discomfort.
Give them something to chew on. A cold, wet cloth or a teething ring can help reduce inflammation and pain. Massage their gums. Gently rub your child’s gums with your finger to help relieve pain. Apply a topical numbing gel. Orajel or other over-the-counter products can temporarily numb the gums and provide relief. Follow the package instructions carefully when using these products.
Conclusion
If your child is experiencing severe pain or has a fever, contact your pediatrician or dentist. They may recommend other treatments or medication to help ease your child’s discomfort.
The most common dental problems in children are cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay.
Yes, it is normal for a child’s teeth to be yellow. The enamel on baby teeth is thinner than on adult teeth, so the underlying dentin is more likely to show through. As children get older, their enamel gets thicker and their teeth will appear less yellow.