Top dental issues for toddlers

Toddlers are prone to a few different dental issues that will have parents searching for a dentist for children in Surrey. Cavities are one of the most common, for instance, as is prolonged thumbsucking, bruxism, emerging orthodontic issues and even gum disease. 

Common dental issues for toddlers

• Cavities
• Thumb sucking
• Bruxism
• Orthodontic issues
• Gum disease

Cavities in toddlers’ teeth happen for a variety of reasons. It might be that they spend large amounts of time sucking a bottle or cup containing juice, milk or something other than water. Their diet may be high in sugar. Their teeth may not be brushed or flossed consistently. Tooth decay can result in pain, sensitivity, inflammation, and loss of a tooth (which can cause problems for adult teeth not yet in).

Sucking on a thumb or soother as a child ages can cause problems in the alignment of teeth. Upper front teeth are gradually pushed forward and may no longer meet the bottom teeth correctly.This kind of gap causes issues with biting and even speech. It’s best to taper off this habit as soon as you can.

Bruxism, aka tooth grinding begins really early for some children. It’s a way to deal with the discomfort of teeth coming in. It eventually goes away for some but doesn’t for others, and this risks damaging their tooth enamel.

Orthodontic issues can be spotted early as a child’s jaws are still growing and developing. Early intervention can fix most issues.

Gum disease results when issues are left to fester on their own. By then a child is risking tooth loss and gum recession. A trip to the dentist is essential to address the underlying problems and prevent serious, long term damage.

We recommend taking children to see a pediatric dentist in Surry within 6 months of their first tooth coming in. Starting this early allows the environment to become familiar to the child. Should any work need to be done in the future for any of the above reasons, they will be more comfortable with the experience.

Book an appointment to bring your child in to Riverside Heights Dental Centre today. 604-584-2535