Most dental problems kids face are similar to the ones that affect adults. However, children’s developing teeth are softer and more delicate than their permanent successors. Additionally, untreated dental conditions can lead to more severe issues as they grow up. For this reason, the best pediatric dentist in Las Vegas, NV, plays a crucial role in helping your child maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.
What Are the Most Common Dental Health Issues in Kids?
Tooth Decay
Young kids with a sugar-heavy diet who aren’t proficient at brushing and flossing are likely to develop tooth decay and cavities. As a sticky film of bacteria called plaque builds up on their teeth, the acid in it eats away at the enamel until it wears away at the tooth.
It’s best to supervise and help your child brush their teeth, especially if they can’t grasp and control the toothbrush on their own. Proper brushing removes food particles, bacteria, and plaque and prevents tooth decay.
However, if your child has already developed a cavity, a pediatric dentist can treat it with a tooth filling. They’ll drill away the decay before filling the hole with a hard, tooth-colored composite material.
Bad Breath
Bad breath commonly affects younger children who don’t know how to brush their teeth correctly. Besides inadequate brushing, the common causes of bad breath include morning breath and food particles left on teeth.
The mouth has bacteria colonies that sustain themselves on leftover food, plaque, and fluid. The bacteria produce hydrogen peroxide as they eat, causing a bad smell in the mouth. Moreover, morning breath results from oral bacteria that multiply during sleep. You can help your child combat bad breath by ensuring regular brushing, flossing, rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash, and dental checkups.
On the other hand, chronic bad breath or halitosis indicates a more significant issue, such as gum disease, chronic sinusitis, tooth decay, diabetes, or digestive problems. It’s worth noting that halitosis can also be a side effect of certain medications.
Sensitive Teeth
Since tooth sensitivity is uncomfortable, it usually disrupts a child’s focus and routine. Areas of decay, cavities, enamel erosion, newly erupted permanent teeth, bruxism, orthodontic treatment, or a cracked tooth can cause your child’s teeth to feel sensitive. Thankfully, a pediatric dentist offers a variety of treatments to reduce your child’s pain and discomfort.
Pediatric Gingivitis and Gum Disease
Contrary to popular belief, gingivitis and gum disease can also occur in children. A child who doesn’t observe oral hygiene is vulnerable to these conditions. Their symptoms include red, swollen gums that slightly bleed whenever they brush or floss their teeth.
You can help your child prevent gingivitis and gum disease by teaching them how to clean their teeth thoroughly. However, if your child already has these conditions, you’ll want to take them to a pediatric dentist who can recommend specific treatment options for gingivitis or gum disease.
Canker Sores
Children sometimes develop painful canker sores on any part of the mouth, including their gums. Kids who have canker sores have difficulty eating and speaking. Although these sores are likely to recur, they go away within a week. However, if your child has a canker sore, it’s best to take them to the pediatric dentist so they can prescribe pain medication to alleviate your child’s discomfort.
Orthodontic Problems
Children experience minor or severe orthodontic conditions that can significantly impact their self-esteem. The most common factors that greatly influence how a child’s teeth grow and come together include genetics and the size and shape of a child’s jaw. An orthodontic condition can lead to oral hygiene issues, cracked teeth, and jaw problems if left untreated.
If your child has overcrowded teeth or bite problems such as an overbite, underbite, or open bite, it’s best to book an appointment with the pediatric dentist immediately. The ideal age for a child’s first orthodontic appointment is seven or eight.
Bruxism
Bruxism is an involuntary habit of clenching or grinding teeth. This condition is common among babies and toddlers who experience discomfort in their jaws when their primary teeth are about to erupt. While some kids stop doing this after their teeth emerge and develop, other children continue grinding their teeth.
If you suspect your child has bruxism, you’ll want to consult a pediatric dentist to help reduce their chances of eroding their tooth enamels and developing tooth decay and sensitivity.
Dental Emergencies
Children who are constantly physically active may experience a dental emergency. A dental emergency can happen while roughhousing with siblings, playing sports, or riding a bike. These accidents may result in a chipped, cracked, broken, or knocked-out tooth.
You need to call a pediatric dentist immediately if your child’s permanent tooth accidentally falls out. While waiting for your appointment, retrieve the tooth and place it in a glass of saline solution, clean water, or milk to keep it moist. The pediatric dentist may still be able to reattach the tooth into the socket with the help of a retainer.
Looking for a Pediatric Dentist in Las Vegas, NV?
The warmhearted and dedicated team of dental professionals at Dee for Dentist offers safe and comfortable dentistry for patients of all ages. Contact our office today to make an appointment.
