In this article, we discuss the most common pediatric dental problems and signs that you should seek children’s dentistry services.
Common Pediatric Dental Problems
Below, we discuss 5 most common pediatric dental problems and their symptoms.
Cavities
Cavities (or tooth decay) are one of the most common oral health issues in children. Cavities occur due to bacterial proliferation in the mouth. Bacteria feed on sugars contained in foods and beverages and secrete acid, which gradually weakens and destroys tooth enamel. To prevent cavities in children, we recommend:
Ensuring that your child brushes their teeth thoroughly twice a day and flosses every evening
Opting for fluoride toothpaste, as fluoride helps remineralize and strengthen enamel
Limiting sugary and acidic foods and beverages
Visiting your dentist for cleanings and checkups twice a year
Signs of cavities in children that require prompt treatment include:
- White or brown spots on the teeth
- Pain or discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
- Localized toothache, especially when biting or chewing food
- Persistent bad breath
- Noticeable holes or pits in the tooth surface
- Swollen, red, or tender gums near the affected tooth
- Irritability, trouble sleeping, or reluctance to eat due to dental pain
Gingivitis and Gum Disease
Gingivitis is an early form of gum disease, typically caused by bacteria in plaque along the gumline. If gingivitis is left untreated, it advances and turns into chronic periodontal disease that can be managed but not entirely reversed. That is why we recommend consulting your pediatric dentist as soon as you notice the following symptoms:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding gums, especially during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Receding gums or gums that pull away from the teeth
- Irritability or discomfort while eating due to gum pain
Prevention methods of gingivitis and gum disease include:
- Ensuring that your child brushes their teeth thoroughly twice a day, paying attention to cleaning along the gum line, and flosses every evening
- Encouraging a balanced diet, low in sugary snacks and drinks
- Maintaining regular dental visits for professional cleaning and checkups
Dental Trauma
Dental trauma (teeth, gums, and jawbone injuries) is common in children due to falls during play and sports. Trauma can range from minor chips or cracks to more severe cases, such as dislodged or knocked out teeth and a broken jaw. Regardless of the type of trauma your child sustains, you should consult an emergency dentist immediately.
Tooth Misalignment
We recommend consulting your orthodontist as early as 6 to 7 years of age to plan treatment, if necessary, while the jawbone is still growing and the issues are easier to correct. Most common orthodontic issues in children include:
- Crooked, crowded, or overlapping teeth
- Overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite
- Difficulty biting, chewing, or speaking clearly
- Mouth breathing or difficulty closing lips at rest
- Jaw pain, clicking, or discomfort while chewing
Tooth Eruption Problems
Tooth eruption problems occur when baby or permanent teeth come in too early, too late, or in the wrong position. These issues can be caused by genetic factors, nutritional deficiencies, systemic illnesses, or premature loss of baby teeth due to decay or trauma. Abnormal eruption patterns can affect chewing, speech, dental alignment, and overall oral health.
Make an Appointment with a Pediatric Dentist Today
If you notice signs of oral health issues in your child, do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced pediatric dentist at Baseline Dental today. At our dental office, we provide reliable diagnostics and treatment, and strive to create a stress-free, friendly atmosphere for our young patients.
