5 common paediatric dental problems and how to prevent them

Children experience similar dental problems as the rest of us however some issues and causes are unique to their age group. Today we’re listing 5 common issues we see as paediatric dentists, as well as what you can do to prevent them.

5 common paediatric dental problems

1. Tooth decay/Cavities is caused by poor oral hygiene, too much exposure to sugary foods or drinks, no access or infrequent access to dental care.
2. Gum disease is caused by poor oral hygiene resulting in bacteria remaining on the teeth at the gum line
3. Malocclusion is the misalignment of the teeth. In children, prolonged sucking on a thumb, pacifier, or bottle can cause this. Often there are hereditary causes. Overbites, underbites and crowding are some good examples. Misalignment impacts critical functions like chewing.
4. Trauma. Dental trauma in children could be the result of early tooth loss due to cavities, an injury or accident.
5. Dental anxiety can be caused by unfamiliarity with everything to do with going to the dentist. Additionally, a study found that dental treatments can increase dental anxiety in children. This underscores the importance of prevention.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent problems like tooth decay, cavities, gum disease and treatment-induced dental anxiety is to teach good oral hygiene early, and schedule routine, twice-yearly check-ups.

Brushing and flossing teeth are basic skills every child should know and practice daily. Your dentist and hygienist are happy to help teach proper technique.

Limit exposure to sugary foods and drinks, and encourage routine daily brushing, flossing and rinsing to help prevent bacteria from collecting on the teeth.

To prevent misalignment of the teeth caused by prolonged sucking, wean children off of these habits as early as possible and definitely by the age of 3. For potential hereditary causes, early intervention works wonders. A paediatric dentist will be able to diagnose malocclusions and suggest appropriate treatments.

Children involved in some sports benefit from mouth guards to protect them from injuries and accidental tooth loss. Also, scheduling regular check-ups, ideally twice a year, helps to keep cavities from getting severe enough to cause tooth loss. In the event a child does lose a tooth, or teeth, your dentist can devise a spacer to help keep the rest of the teeth in position while waiting for adult teeth to emerge.

Preventing dental anxiety in young children is best addressed by familiarising them with the dentist, the office, the office staff, and the sights, sounds and smells one typically finds in this setting. We advise bringing in your child within 6 months of their first tooth coming in. Look specifically for a kids' dentist who will have the patience, expertise and experience to help your child feel safe and even enjoy a trip to the dentist.

Riverside Heights Dental Centre provides high quality care for all age groups including children. Book an appointment for your child with our kids’ dentist today. 604-584-2535