Numerous dental conditions that affect children are identical to those that affect adults, but your child’s teeth are still developing, softer, and more immature than their permanent counterparts. Untreated dental illnesses can result in poor tooth development and misalignment, leading to more serious problems as a child matures. Understanding common dental problems and their causes will help you and your child avoid them. Here are the most common dental diseases in children and preventative measures.

Cavities

Cavities, often known as caries or tooth decay, are preventable. Cavities are unlikely to threaten your child’s life, but they can substantially impact their quality of life.

When teeth and gums are exposed to excessive amounts of carbohydrates and sugars regularly, acids can accumulate and erode tooth enamel. Carbohydrate-rich foods, such as candies, pastries, carbonated beverages, and even fruit juices, leave deposits on the teeth. These deposits interact with the oral bacteria to produce plaque. When plaque and deposits combine, acids are produced that can erode the mineral structure of teeth, causing tooth decay.

For cavity prevention, proper oral hygiene is crucial. Ensure that your youngster brushes for two minutes twice daily and flosses daily. If your child is too young to brush their teeth, speak with a great dentist for kids in Lakewood Ranch about how you can maintain their oral health as a parent.

Sensitive Teeth

Did you know that your teeth expand and contract in reaction to changes in temperature? Temperature variations can cause brief discomfort, but sensitive teeth react more strongly. For example, persons with sensitive teeth may experience pain or irritation from hot and cold foods and beverages.

Over time, dental enamel can erode, gums recede, and teeth can develop microscopic cracks that expose the tooth’s interior and irritate nerve endings. Even breathing cold air may irritate those with especially sensitive teeth.

The health of the gums is vital for preventing sensitive teeth. Ensure your child visits an outstanding dentist for special needs at least twice yearly for a gum examination.

Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, may cause inflammation, tooth loss, and bone degradation.

Plaque, a germ-filled biofilm, is the origin of gum disease. In its early stages, gingivitis causes gums to bleed easily and become red and swollen. As periodontitis advances, teeth may fall off or be removed.

Gum disease is often preventable and may be prevented by daily brushing and flossing. Chronic bad breath or a foul taste in the mouth are indicators of gum disease.

Bad Breath

Daily brushing and flossing prevent the buildup of food particles, plaque, and bacteria in the mouth. Food particles left in the mouth decompose and cause bad breath.

Certain foods, such as anchovies or garlic, may temporarily induce bad breath, but persistent bad breath may suggest gum disease or another oral problem. If your child has foul breath, you should schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist from places like Bradenton clinic of Children’s Dentistry of Manatee.

Orthodontic Issues

A misaligned bite (malocclusion) may be inherited, while it may be acquired in some cases. Malocclusion may result from missing or extra teeth, crowded teeth, or misaligned jaws. Malocclusions can be caused by accidents or developmental issues, such as prolonged finger or thumb sucking.

If your child has malocclusions, orthodontic treatments such as braces and aligners can assist. To prevent malocclusion in the first place, ensure that your child’s teeth growth and development are inspected periodically by our dentists, and advise your child to wear a sports mouth guard to prevent athletic injuries.

Conclusion

Childhood is a time of exploration, development, and adventure. Your children can avoid tooth decay if they develop healthy dental care habits early, and these behaviors will continue with them for life. With a little direction and care, you may help your child go from childhood to adolescence without hearing the buzz of a dentist’s drill.