If you have small children, you already know you must teach them to brush their teeth, to eat healthy foods, and to become accustomed to going to the dentist! This is easier to know than to get done in practice, though! Besides sheer business and exhaustion of parenthood, and sensory issues in kids, you can feel to blame for any dental issue that your kid might have. Usually, though, this is not the case! Everybody can and must do better at brushing, but dental problems are common in all children. What are some of the common dental issues? Read on!
Cavities
Some kids brush their teeth often and get many cavities! Some sneakily rarely brush and get few. Cavities are caused by bacteria, and this bacteria can be passed from parent to child, sometimes by sharing the same ice cream cone or other food. This is, of course, not completely preventable no matter how hard you try, because children WILL share germs, even only with each other! There are, though, sealants which can be applied to the teeth of children who have this complication with ongoing dental caries, which can help prevent them.
Teeth Alignment Issues
Once your child is a teenager and has all of their adult teeth, then you get to find out whether or not you have teeth alignment issues. Needing to straighten teeth is not just a vanity job! Those whose teeth do not align properly can get headaches, but also grind their teeth, causing damage to enamel. Multiple issues can arise from more severe jaw and mouth issues resulting in needing to straighten teeth and possibly realign the jaw. If you’re unsure if your child needs braces, you can find out by consulting with an orthodontist.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis, also known as gum disease, often comes as a result of poor hygiene. When plaque and other particles in the teeth aren’t removed from proper brushing, it can harden into tartar which irritates the gums. While normal healthy gums are pink, irritated gums tend to be red and can even bleed during brushing and flossing. Gingivitis can lead to much more serious dental problems, so be sure to look out for the signs of gum disease in your kids!
Your children’s teeth need to be able to serve them for decades to come. Even though some might be “baby teeth” at the moment, that information will stay with them throughout their lives. Dental health reflects body health, so protect those teeth! Your children will thank you!
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