5 Common Dental Problems in Children

Posted on October 12, 2021

Many children experience dental problems as they grow up, and if parents don’t take care of them early on, those issues can lead to severe consequences. This article will explore five common dental problems in children and what you should do about them.

1. Tooth Decay and Cavities

According to The Center For Pediatric Dentistry, one of the most prevalent dental issues in kids is tooth decay, with over 40% of children suffering from cavities by the time they reach kindergarten. Tooth decay occurs when the bacteria in the mouth feed on leftover food particles, which then produce acids that attack tooth enamel, causing cavities. Parents should take care of their children’s teeth by limiting the amount of sugary food and beverages children eat, brushing twice a day, flossing daily, scheduling dental appointments every six months for cleaning and check-ups.

2. Tooth Grinding

Teeth grinding is also known as bruxism, and it’s often done when someone is sleeping or stressed. Grinding can cause damage to teeth, which may lead to fractures or fissures. A child may experience tooth pain while chewing or feel tired after waking up in the morning. If this is the care, parents should schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist if they notice these symptoms.

3. Dental Trauma

Another common problem in children is dental trauma, which may happen when a child falls or has a collision with another person. This can lead to tooth damage, chipped teeth, jaw injuries, or other dental emergencies. Parents should always look for any signs of dental damage after a traumatic incident, and if their child’s teeth are broken or damaged in any way, they should schedule an appointment with a dentist for kids right away.

4. Dental Abscesses

An abscess is a collection of pus that develops in an infected area. This can be caused by several reasons, including cavities or improper dental work, and it can lead to swelling, tenderness of the gums, fever, pain in the surrounding gum area, or facial swelling. If parents notice any of these symptoms in their child, they should schedule an appointment right away.

5. Crowding and Overlapping Teeth

A problem that can occur with children’s teeth is overcrowded or overlapping teeth. This issue usually appears when your child’s permanent adult teeth start growing in. To help fix this problem, you should take them to see a dentist who has experience with orthodontics. They will recommend the best treatment option that’s right for your child, which may include braces.

If you are the parent of a child experiencing any of these five common dental problems, be sure to take them to see a dentist as soon as possible. The sooner you address these issues, the better it will be for your child in the long term.