What Dental Problems Are Most Common In Children?
Posted on: 14 September 2021
Early dental care for young children is crucial to good oral health. Healthy teeth at a young age can help prevent more problematic issues as your child grows into adulthood. For children, there are some issues that are more commonly experienced than others. The following are some of the most common dental issues seen in kids that you need to be aware of:
1. Decay
Decay in children's teeth is one of the more common issues seen by dentists. There are several reasons why a child may experience tooth decay. Some decay issues are simply due to genetic makeup. Soft tooth enamel, jaw alignment, and tooth misalignment are common issues that can cause tooth decay in children no matter how well you brush or floss the teeth. Diet and lifestyle are also contributors to tooth decay. Certain foods higher in sugar, include starchy carbohydrates, are more likely to sit on the surface of the teeth. When sugar sits on the teeth for prolonged periods of time, bacteria grow and can result in decay.
2. Gum Disease
Gum disease is commonly attributed to adult dental patients, but children can suffer from this issue as well. Gum disease and gingivitis cause gum inflammation. The gums get red and inflamed, causing them to bleed. If gum disease is not addressed, a child can potentially lose teeth and suffer damage to the jawbone. The primary cause of gum disease in children is poor dental hygiene.
3. Bruxism
Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, is another common dental issue children deal with. Bruxism can cause pain but can also cause damage to the teeth. Whether your child grinds his or her teeth during sleep or throughout the day, the problem needs attention. Bruxism is typically treated with a mouth guard worn overnight to help prevent the grinding.
4. Misalignment
If your child uses a pacifier past a certain age or is a thumb sucker, your child's teeth can become misaligned. The act of sucking on an object can cause the teeth to become misshapen and misaligned. If you can break the habit of a child's need to suck a thumb or a pacifier early enough, the teeth may go back to a normal position automatically over time.
Above all, good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups are the best prevention to your child's dental issues. Daily brushing and flossing early in life can start healthy dental habits can get your child's dental health going in the right direction. Contact a local dental clinic to schedule a children's dental cleaning appointment.
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