What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear
the phrase “common childhood dental problems?”
Cavities probably top the list – and for a good reason.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 20%
of children ages 5 to 11 years old have at least one cavity.
But do you know the others? Let’s take a look at or common
dental problems that children experience, and how to prevent them in the first place[LB1] .
Common Childhood
Dental Problems – Occurrence, Prevention, and More
Aside from chronic conditions and disease, childhood dental
problems are preventable. It all starts with a disciplined, common-sense care
regimen at home, along with regular dentist visits.
Here are the most common dental issues affecting children,
along with some tips to promote healthy teeth and gums:
- Cavities.
We’ve already mentioned the dreaded c-word, but it’s worth repeating. Cavities
are a telltale sign of tooth decay and other serious problems. To prevent
cavities, ensure your child brushes and flosses at least twice per day. Also, keep
an eye on their sugar intake. - Gum
disease. Also known as gingivitis, gum disease occurs when the gum tissue
becomes inflamed, red, and sore. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to
tooth loss. To prevent this common dental issue, make sure your child brushes
and flosses regularly. - Thumb
sucking. While most children stop this habit by age 4, continued thumb
sucking can lead to misaligned teeth and other issues. Consult with your
dentist to discuss strategies on how to wean your child from thumb sucking. - Baby
teeth. The incisors (front teeth) are usually gone by age 6, while the
molars (back teeth) are replaced by age 12 to 13. Sometimes, these teeth are
stubborn and won’t fall out. If that’s the case, schedule a dentist appointment
for further assistance. - Bad
breath. It’s hard to avoid this problem. Bad breath happens when bacteria
builds up in the mouth and creates a foul odor. To prevent bad breath, your
child should brush and rinse regularly – and not just the teeth, either. The
tongue also deserves some TLC, since it can accommodate large amounts of
bacteria.
Visit Dr. Dental and
Avoid Childhood Dental Problems
Dr. Dental helps children, teens, and adults with everything from tooth decay to routine cleanings and more. If you think your child is experiencing dental issues, schedule an appointment at Dr. Dental today. Our dental care experts can diagnose, treat, and follow up on a host of common childhood dental problems. We offer a full slate of dental care services for the entire family. Thanks for visiting Dr. Dental!
How to Prevent the 5 Most Common Childhood Dental Problems was last modified: January 23rd, 2020 by