As a parent, caring for your child’s health is at the top of your priority list. While you may focus on their physical and mental well-being, it’s easy to forget their oral health. However, neglecting a kid’s dental hygiene can lead to significant problems down the line. Tooth decay, gum disease, malocclusion, and other dental issues can cause pain, discomfort, tooth loss, and even affect overall health. Learn some of the most common dental problems in children and get practical tips to help prevent them, such as regular brushing and getting Decatur family dentistry services. 

Most Common Dental Problems Children Suffer From

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the leading dental issue in children, leading to pain, infection, and tooth loss. This oral problem arises when bacteria in the mouth produce acid that eats away tooth enamel, giving damaging substances room to attack vulnerable tissue below your gums. Sugary and starchy foods are the main culprits behind tooth decay, as well as a lack of proper tooth brushing and flossing.  

Even though primary teeth will eventually fall off, severe decay can affect how permanent teeth come out and cause overall health issues like heart problems. 

Gum Disease

Gum disease is a gum infection that produces symptoms like sensitivity, tooth loss, and swelling if left untreated. Gum disease results from the build-up of plaque and tartar over and around your teeth, which pushes your gums back and exposes more sensitive parts of your teeth. Symptoms of gum disease include: 

• Bleeding 
• Red, swollen, and tender gums 
• Bad breath 

If your child has gum disease, your dentist may recommend deep cleaning or other periodontal treatments to help reverse the damage and prevent further problems. 

Malocclusion

Malocclusion is a dental condition in which your kid’s upper and lower jaw aren’t aligned, or their teeth are crooked and on top of one another. Many factors can produce malocclusion, including genetics, thumb sucking, and prolonged use of pacifiers.  

Not only does this oral issue take a toll on a child’s self-esteem, but it also causes chewing, biting, and speech problems. If you don’t seek treatment for this problem, your little one will keep pressuring their teeth against each other and removing tooth enamel, which puts them at greater risk of suffering from cavities and gum disease. 

Tips to Help Your Children Prevent Oral Problems

Teach Them to Brush Their Teeth Regularly

Make sure your child brushes their teeth at least twice a day for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush. Please encourage them to floss afterward to ensure their teeth have no food left. 

Don’t Let Them Binge on Candy

Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, provide healthy snacks like fruits and vegetables, and have your kid drink plenty of water. 

Schedule Visits to Their Family Dentist

Regular dental checkups every six months can help catch any oral problems early and prevent them from getting worse. 

Looking for Family Dentistry Services in Decatur?

Maintaining your child’s teeth clean and disease-free is essential to their well-being. By preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and malocclusion, you can help your child avoid pain and discomfort while developing healthy dental habits that will last a lifetime. Regular checkups and cleanings at Terry Family Dentistry can keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy, so schedule an appointment today!