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Maintaining good oral health from an early age is the best way to keep your child’s smile healthy into adulthood. Understanding common dental issues that can arise will help you to be proactive with their oral health.Â
In this blog, Dr. Henry Martinez, DMD explains ten common dental problems in kids, their causes and preventive measures.
Table of Contents
1. Tooth Decay in Kids
Tooth decay, or dental caries, is one of the most prevalent dental issues that can affect your child. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities and sensitive teeth. Kids are particularly susceptible due to high consumption of acidic foods and sugary drinks.
Prevention: Encourage regular brushing with hydroxyapatite or fluoride toothpaste, limit sugary snacks, and promote a balanced diet.
Treatment: If cavities develop, a pediatric dentist may recommend fillings or dental crowns.
2. Bad Breath
Bad breath, or halitosis, in kids can result from poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, or certain foods.
Prevention: Teach your child the importance of brushing their tongue and drinking plenty of clean water throughout the day.
Treatment: A professional dental cleaning can help, along with maintaining good oral hygiene habits.
3. Pediatric Gingivitis and Gum Disease
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease characterized by inflammation and redness of the gums. It can be caused by plaque buildup if proper oral hygiene isn’t maintained.
Prevention: Regular brushing and flossing, along with frequent dental check-ups.
Treatment: A pediatric dentist may recommend deep cleaning and improved oral care routines.
4. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, often occurs during sleep, which can lead to jaw pain and damaged teeth.
Prevention: Look for signs of grinding, like worn teeth or jaw discomfort, and consult a dentist.
Treatment: A nightguard can protect teeth while a child sleeps, alleviating pain and preventing further damage.
5. Tooth Sensitivity
Children can experience tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet substances, often due to enamel erosion or cavities.
Prevention: Ensure a balanced diet and teach proper brushing techniques to maintain healthy enamel.
Treatment: Sensitivity toothpaste may help, along with professional advice from a dentist.
6. Shark Teeth
When permanent teeth push through before baby teeth fall out, it can create a “shark teeth” situation. This may lead to misalignment if not addressed.
Prevention: Regular dental check-ups can help monitor the transition from primary to permanent teeth.
Treatment: A pediatric dentist can recommend tooth extraction if they don’t fall out on their own.
7. Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
Baby bottle tooth decay occurs when infants are frequently exposed to sugary liquids through bottles, leading to severe cavities in baby teeth.
Prevention: Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle containing anything other than water.
Treatment: Fluoride treatments such as fluoride toothpaste or silver diamine fluoride. If the decay is more severe, pit and fissure sealants can control the decay and prevent it from getting worse.
8. Chipped Teeth
Chipped teeth can happen due to falls or accidents. Kids are active and often a bit clumsy, these can increase their risk of dental injuries.
Prevention: Ensure children wear mouthguards during sports and supervise them during play.
Treatment: Chipped teeth may require bonding or dental crowns, depending on the severity.
Dental emergencies happen so be prepared with a dental first aid kit. Read Dental First Aid Kits: What Every Parent Should Have at Home.
9. Canker Sores
Canker sores are painful, small ulcers that can appear in the mouth and often affect kids.
Prevention: Maintain good oral hygiene and limit acidic and spicy foods.
Treatment: These sores usually heal on their own, but a pediatric dentist can recommend topical treatments to ease discomfort.
10. Thumb Sucking or Pacifier Use
Thumb sucking and pacifier use is a common habit among toddlers and can lead to misaligned teeth if continued beyond the age of three.
Prevention: Offer positive reinforcement to help reduce the habit.
Treatment: If thumb sucking or pacifier use continues past the age of 3, consult with your pediatric dentist for tips on how to break the habit.
For helpful tips on how to help your child stop thumb sucking or pacifier use, read Breaking The Habit: How Thumb Sucking and Pacifier Use Affect Your Child’s Smile.
Big Apple Pediatric Dentistry: Your Child’s Top Pediatric Dentist
Regular dental visits, proper brushing techniques, and a balanced diet are key in preventing common dental problems in kids. Always consult with a pediatric dentist for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your child’s needs.
Dr. Henry Martinez, DMD, is always accepting new patients! We accept Medicaid and accept most insurance. For a full list of the companies we work with, visit our Financial/Insurance page.
If you are searching for a ‘top pediatric dentist near me’ or ‘pediatric dentist in Phoenix, AZ’ we can help. Call (602) 935-7427 to book an appointment or complete the online inquiry form.
