5 Common Dental Problems in Children

Many children experience dental problems as they grow, as a parent it’s important to keep your child’s dental health in mind. Dental issues can cause pain and if left untreated can lead to more serious issues. Here are our top five most common dental problems that occur during childhood and treatments that can help.

1. Cavities (Tooth Decay)

Cavities, also known as tooth decay, are the most common dental problem in childhood. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), up to 10% of children between the ages of 2-5 have untreated cavities. Tooth decay occurs when the bacteria in the mouth feed on leftover food particles. This produces acids that attack tooth enamel, causing cavities. The treatments for cavities can range from simple fillings to root canals, depending on the severity of the cavity. 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, and scheduling dental appointments every six months for cleaning and check-ups.

2. Gum (Periodontal) Disease

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the tissues that affects your gums and can lead to tooth loss.  Gum disease is often caused by poor dental hygiene that allows plaque to build up on teeth. Gum disease can often be prevented by brushing and flossing daily. Treatment for gum disease can range from a dental cleaning to gum surgery in more severe cases.

3. Tooth Sensitivity

Like adults, children can also experience tooth sensitivity, which is commonly recognized by a sharp pain or discomfort when their tooth is exposed to either hot, cold or sweet foods and drinks. The treatment for tooth sensitivity includes desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride treatments, or in more severe cases a filling or crown.

4. Crowding and Overlapping Teeth

When a child’s teeth are overcrowded or overlapping, they have a problem called malocclusion. This issue usually appears when your child’s permanent adult teeth start growing in. To help fix this problem, take your child to see a dentist who has experience with pediatric orthodontics. They will recommend the best treatment option that’s right for your child, which may include braces.

5. Dental Trauma

A 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. Look for signs of dental damage after a traumatic incident, and if your child’s teeth are broken or damaged in any way, should schedule an appointment with a dentist for kids right away.

How To Keep Your Child’s Teeth Healthy

The best way to prevent dental problems in childhood is to practice good oral hygiene. That means brushing twice a day and after meals, using fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and visiting your pediatric dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. By limiting sugary drinks and offering healthy snacks such as fruits, vegetables, and cheese you can promote a healthy diet for your child. A healthy diet and lifestyle can help to prevent cavities and other dental problems.

The ADA recommends bringing your child to the dentist once their first tooth comes in. Pediatric dentists understand the importance of care for young patients. To ensure your child enjoys the dentist, choose the best option for pediatric dentistry in Plantation.

Contact Jacaranda Smiles for a pediatric dentist to make your child feel comfortable. We offer pediatric dental and orthodontic care for kids as young as 2 in a caring, clean, and safe environment. By creating a positive relationship with a dentist early on, your child is sure to be excited about regular dentist visits well into adulthood.