According to research, 47% of children between 7-15 years grapple with dental anxiety. However, periodontal diseases are prevalent among children. And without proper dental care, these issues may persist to adulthood. Most dental problems among children occur due to several reasons. These may include cavity-causing bacteria and lack of access to proper dental care. While your child could be afraid of the dentist’s office, children’s dentistry helps alleviate the anxiety.

Even so, a good grasp of children’s dental problems can improve your child’s oral health. Here is a list of common dental issues in children’s dentistry and how to prevent them.

1. Cavities

1 out of 4 U.S children aged between 2 to 5 years has tooth decay. Moreover, cavities affect 1 in every two adolescents aged 12 to 15.

Cavities or tooth decay emanates from bacteria that thrive on sugary and starchy foods. The bacteria produce acid, which attacks the tooth enamel. Once the enamel is damaged, cavities start to form.

Brushing your child’s teeth at least twice a day can help keep tooth decay at bay. It would be best if you also had them floss once a day. In addition, avoid giving them sugary snacks and drinks.

2. Gum Disease

If you notice that your child is bleeding when brushing their teeth, this could be a sign of gum disease. Usually, this problem is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth.

Over time, plaque can turn into tartar, which is more challenging if not removed. Tartar can irritate the gums and cause them to bleed.

To prevent gum disease, have your child brush and floss their teeth regularly. You can also take them to a kid-friendly dentist for oral checkups.

3. Bad Breath

Halitosis is prevalent among children. And although it has many causes, it mainly emanates from poor oral hygiene.

If your child doesn’t brush and floss their teeth regularly, plaque and tartar can build up on their teeth. And its accumulation can eventually lead to bad breath.

The only you can prevent or treat halitosis is through proper oral hygiene. Besides your child brushing and flossing regularly, ensure they use their toothbrush to clean their teeth gently. Antibacterial mouthwash will also play an integral role in preventing bad breath.

4. Tooth Discoloration

Discolored teeth may affect your child’s confidence. But unfortunately, it is another dental problem that is common among children.

Tooth discoloration is often caused by plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth. In addition, certain foods and drinks can also cause tooth discoloration. These include coffee, tea, and red wine.

For this reason, you need to monitor what your child eats and drinks. Besides teaching your children good oral hygiene practices, reduce their intake of food that could stain their teeth.

5. Tooth Enamel Erosion

Acidic beverages and foods cause tooth enamel erosion. The acid attacks the tooth enamel and causes it to wear away. Once this happens, your child begins to experience tooth sensitivity.

Since sugary and acidic foods cause enamel erosion, you want to ensure that your child takes them in moderation. And whenever your child eats such foods, ask them to brush their teeth shortly after.

6. Tooth Sensitivity

Sensitive teeth are often caused by tooth enamel erosion. When the enamel is worn away, the dentin is exposed. Tooth sensitivity causes pain and discomfort when eating or drinking hot or cold beverages.

If your child complains of pain or discomfort in their teeth after eating sugary foods, they probably have this problem.

In that case, you don’t want to continue giving your little one sugary snacks. Also, teach your child how to brush teeth thoroughly with a soft bristle toothbrush.

7. Jaw Pain

Jaw pain is often caused by bruxism, which is grinding or clenching of the teeth. Usually, jaw pain can occur during the day or at night. TMJ disorders can also cause jaw pain.

If you suspect your child has this problem, take them to a pediatric dentist. You also want to ensure your child is not eating hard and chewy foods. Otherwise, the problem can get worse.

Massaging your child’s jaws can help relieve tension. Consequently, your loved one will feel better.

8. Excessive Thumb Sucking

Infants, small children, and toddlers love to suck their thumbs. However, thumb sucking can cause dental problems. It can cause the teeth to become misaligned.

If your child sucks their thumb, try to break the habit before it causes dental problems. You can praise them when they don’t suck their thumb. In addition, you can give them a stuffed animal or toy to suck on instead.

9. Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding is one of the dental issues that are pretty unsettling. It affects children, particularly those who are in their deep sleep. Children grind their teeth when they’re anxious or stressed.

The problem is that tooth grinding can damage the enamel and lead to pain in the jaw muscles. The best approach to dealing with this issue is to take your young one to a kid’s dentist.

Furthermore, try to reduce your child’s stress levels. You can do this by talking to them about their worries and concerns.

10. Trauma to the Teeth

Trauma to the teeth is a common dental problem in children. Falls, fights, and accidents can cause it. Left unattended, it can lead to fractures, tooth loss, and nerve damage.

To prevent trauma to the teeth, have your child wear a mouth guard when playing sports. You should also make sure they avoid hard and chewy foods. In addition, teach them how to brush and floss their teeth properly.

Children’s Dentistry Is the Key to Your Childs Dental Health

Children’s dentistry has come a long way in recent years. However, there are still many dental problems that affect children. By being aware of these problems, you can take steps to prevent them. If your child does experience dental pain, be sure to see a dentist immediately.

If you want to better care for your child’s oral health, start by bringing your young one to us. We are pediatric dentists that cater to children of all ages. Also, we treat all types of periodontal diseases affecting children.

Contact us today, and we will be glad to see your child.