3 Most Common Dental Problems For Kids
Dental issues are very common in children, which is why pediatric dentists stress the importance of early dental visits as well as teaching children healthy habits and good oral hygiene from a very early age. Some dental issues are hereditary and others result from poor hygiene. To protect your child’s smile, parents should understand common dental problems in children, the causes and preventative measures that can be taken to avoid unnecessary health issues. The encouraging word for parents is that most dental problems children face are preventable and treatable with proper care and healthy routines.
Continue reading to learn more about the three of the most common dental problems children and adolescents experience. For a thorough evaluation of your child’s oral and dental health, contact the office of Dr. Brent Caple, pediatric dentist in Rogers, Arkansas.
Tooth Decay
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), dental caries, commonly known as cavities or tooth decay, are the most common chronic disease of childhood in the United States. Untreated cavities can cause pain and infections that may lead to problems with eating, speaking, playing, and learning. However, with proper oral hygiene and healthy habits, cavities are preventable.
To help prevent cavities, dentists recommend the following:
Healthy at-home hygiene habits, including brushing daily with fluoride toothpaste
Routine visits to a pediatric dentist
Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a common dental issue found in children. Factors contributing to tooth sensitivity may include: poor brushing habits, tooth decay, and enamel erosion. There are many reasons why your child may be experiencing sensitivity, but most of the reasons can be traced back to poor oral hygiene. This is why it is so important to encourage your child to develop healthy dental habits.
To help prevent tooth sensitivity, children should do the following:
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently
Avoid acidic foods and drinks
Limit sugary snacks and beverages
Drink plenty of water to promote saliva production and rinse away food particles
Practice proper brushing and flossing techniques to prevent damage to the teeth and gums
Get regular fluoride treatments to help protect against sensitivity, as recommended by the dentist
Dental Emergencies: Chipping, Breaking or Cracked
Accidents are a common cause of dental trauma or dental emergencies among children. If your child injures their teeth due to a trauma, sports-related injury, or while playing, contact your dentist as soon as possible to schedule an emergency visit and examination.
In case of dental trauma, please follow these tips before heading to the dentist's office:
Rinse your child’s mouth with clean water.
If you notice swelling, place a cold compress on the child’s cheek where the injury has occurred.
If you have located the tooth fragment or the tooth was knocked out, place it in a cup of milk (not water) and bring it with you.
Dr. Caple will determine the appropriate dental treatment, and you will receive instructions on how to care for your child’s repaired tooth when you return home.
What can parents or caregivers do to protect a child’s teeth from tooth decay?
Parents and caregivers play an important role in preventing common dental problems in children. Spend time showing your child the proper way to brush teeth. Remember: healthy, consistent at-home oral hygiene habits help increase their effectiveness and ward off unnecessary decay. Additionally, schedule routine dental visits at a pediatric dentist near you. Regular dental visits can prevent cavities from forming and also provide the opportunity to detect and treat tooth decay in the earliest and easily treatable stages.
The best way to help your child keep a sparkling smile is by being a positive role model and practicing healthy habits. Brushing and flossing with your child regularly and making sure they don’t miss their dental appointments are excellent ways to promote healthy dental habits for life.
By teaching your children these healthy habits and partnering with an experienced pediatric dentist for routine dental care, your child can avoid many of these common dental problems. If you have any concerns about your child’s oral health or development, please consult your dentist at your next appointment. Dr. Brent Caple, a pediatric dentist serving Rogers, Bentonville, and surrounding northwest Arkansas communities, is committed to providing the best pediatric dental care to every patient. Contact our office to book your child’s appointment today.