Issues and Preventative Measures in Pediatric Oral Health

While many dental problems kids have are the same as those of adults, the teeth of a child are still developing, making them softer and younger than their permanent counterparts. Problems with tooth development and alignment problems can worsen as a kid age if dental disorders are left untreated. To help you and your child avoid common dental problems, it’s important to understand what causes them. The most common pediatric dental problems and preventative measures are outlined here.

Cavities

Caries, or tooth decay, can be avoided. While cavities probably won’t kill your kid, they might seriously compromise their quality of life.

Acids can build up when teeth and gums are constantly subjected to excessive levels of starches and sweets, and eventually, they will begin to chip away at the tooth enamel. The sugars and starches in foods like cookies, soda, and fruit juice can leave sticky residues on your teeth. The oral bacteria interact with these deposits to form plaque. The acid produced by the breakdown of deposits and plaque can weaken the tooth’s mineral structure, leading to decay.

Keeping up with a routine of good dental care is crucial in the fight against tooth decay. Take the time to make sure your kid brushes for two minutes twice a day and flosses once a day. Talk to a pediatric dentist during their working hours about what you can do to keep your child’s teeth healthy if they are too young to start brushing independently.

Sensitive Teeth

Did you know that when the temperature changes, so does the size of your teeth? Even though most people feel some brief discomfort as the temperature changes, those with sensitive teeth feel it far more acutely. Those with sensitive teeth may experience discomfort or irritation when consuming hot or cold meals and drinks.

Worn enamel, receding gums, and tiny fissures in teeth can all expose the sensitive pulp inside a tooth and cause discomfort as one ages. Some people may have trouble breathing cold air because their teeth are so sensitive.

Maintaining healthy gums is essential for protecting against sensitive teeth. Get your kid in for a dental checkup at least twice a year.

Gum Disease

Inflammation, the loss of teeth, and even bone loss can all be symptoms of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease.

Plaque, a scaly biofilm of bacteria, is the first stage of gum disease development. Initial stages of gingivitis manifest as red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If periodontitis is left untreated, teeth could eventually fall out or have to be removed.

Most cases of gum disease are preventable with regular brushing and flossing. Gum disease can manifest in various ways, and bad breath or a foul taste in the mouth are two of the more persistent ones.

Bad Breath

You can keep your mouth free of food debris, plaque, and bacteria by practicing good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing at least twice daily. Bad breath is caused by decaying food particles left in the mouth.

Garlic and anchovies, for example, may give you bad breath for a little while, but if it persists, you may have gum disease or another dental condition. If your kid stinks, it might be time to take them to the best pediatric dentist Bradenton FL has available.

Orthodontic Issues

Some forms of a misaligned bite (a malocclusion) are inherited, while others are learned. Too few teeth, too many teeth, too much crowding, or jaw misalignment can all contribute to the appearance of malocclusion. Malalignments may result from trauma or growth issues, such as chronic thumb or finger sucking.

You can help your child with malocclusions with orthodontic treatments like braces and aligners. Find appointment with the dentist to monitor your child’s tooth growth and development, and have your child use a sports mouth guard to protect his or her teeth from injury while playing sports to reduce the risk of malocclusion.

Conclusion

The years of childhood are filled with opportunities for growth and discovery. Help your kids avoid cavities by teaching them good dental hygiene habits early on. With some guidance and care, you may help your kid grow up without ever experiencing the dreaded “buzz” of the dentist’s drill.