Common Dental Problems in Children: Explained

Children often experience dental problems like cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay. According to a recent study, nearly 51.3% of children aged 2 to 19 had at least one cavity or filling in their primary teeth. Also, 20.5% of children aged 2 to 11 have untreated cavities in the permanent teeth. Knowing what to look for and how to address these issues can help protect your child’s oral health. In this article, we explain the most common dental problems in children and offer tips on prevention and treatment. We will also discuss why it’s so important for kids to visit the dentist regularly. So whether your child has never visited the dentist, or is due for a check-up, read on to learn more about common children’s dental problems!

1) Cavities 

Cavities are caused by the persistent presence of bacteria in the mouth and the regular consumption of sugary and starchy foods. When these substances mix with saliva, they form a sticky film that clings to teeth known as plaque. Over time, this plaque can cause damage to tooth enamel, leading to cavities. According to this dental blog, dental caries is the most common chronic disease in children. Cavity prevention is key for kids as they often don’t brush and floss regularly. To prevent cavities, parents should make sure children are brushing twice daily with a toothpaste that contains fluoride, flossing once per day, and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups. Additionally, we can prevent cavities with great home care habits, diet, fluoride or hydroxyapatite mouthrinse and sealants. If a cavity is detected, it should be filled promptly to prevent further damage to teeth. This way, your child can continue to enjoy eating and speaking without discomfort. 

2) Tooth Decay 

When cavities are left untreated, they can lead to tooth decay. Tooth decay is the destruction of the enamel and underlying layers of a tooth, which can cause pain and sensitivity when eating certain foods or drinking hot or cold liquids. Additionally, it can lead to serious complications like bone loss in the jaw, infection, nerve damage, and even abscesses if left untreated. To prevent tooth decay, parents should ensure their children follow good oral hygiene habits and limit sugary snacks. In addition to daily brushing, flossing, and rinsing, it’s important to visit the dentist every six months for a check-up. 

3) Gingivitis 

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums caused by a buildup of plaque on teeth. This condition can lead to red and swollen gums, as well as bleeding when brushing, flossing, or eating. Gingivitis can be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice daily, flossing at least once per day, and visiting the dentist for regular cleanings. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, which is an infection of the tissues surrounding teeth and can cause tooth loss if not treated promptly. 

4) Toothache 

A toothache is a common problem in children that can be caused by cavities, infections, or trauma to the teeth. It’s important to have a child’s toothache examined by a dentist to determine the cause and proper course of treatment. In the meantime, parents should avoid giving over-the-counter pain medicines such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen as these can mask symptoms without providing a solution. Instead, use a cold compress and salt water rinses to manage pain until you can visit the dentist.

5) Thumb Sucking 

Thumb sucking is a normal habit for young children, but it can become an issue if your child continues this habit beyond age 5. When thumb sucking becomes part of your child’s daily routine, it can lead to difficulties with speech as well as misaligned teeth and bite problems. To prevent these issues from developing, encourage your child to stop thumb sucking before or around age 5 by providing positive reinforcement and rewarding them when they don’t suck their thumb. If the habit persists after that time, talk to your dentist about possible solutions such as braces or aversion therapy. 

6) Irregular Teeth Position  

Irregular teeth position, also known as malocclusion, is an issue that can arise if a child’s jaw is too small or the teeth aren’t in alignment. This condition can cause difficulty with chewing and speaking, as well as pain when opening or closing the mouth. To prevent this from occurring, parents should ensure their children are visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Early intervention is key to prevent further complications from developing, so if an issue is detected it should be addressed immediately. In some cases, braces may be necessary to correct misaligned teeth but in other instances simple treatments like mouthguards for retainers may suffice.

7) Teething 

Teething is a normal part of childhood and usually occurs between 6 and 24 months of age. During this time, babies may experience pain and discomfort in their gums as their teeth cut through the surface. To help relieve symptoms, parents can offer teething rings or toys made specifically for teething babies to chew on. Additionally, a cold washcloth or a cold spoon can help soothe the gums in between feedings. While these measures may help ease discomfort, parents should be sure to visit their pediatric dentist for an examination at around one year of age to ensure everything is developing properly.

8) Dental Emergency 

Dental emergencies can happen at any time, and it’s important to be prepared in case they do. If a child experiences trauma to the mouth, such as a broken or knocked-out tooth, parents should immediately call their dentist for advice. In some cases, a visit to the emergency room may be necessary to prevent further damage or infection. For issues such as a lost filling or a toothache, parents should call their dentist as soon as possible to book an appointment. In any case, it’s important to remain calm and take the necessary steps to ensure your child receives proper care.

Having good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist regularly are essential for keeping your child’s teeth healthy. However, unexpected dental issues can arise at any time. It’s important to be aware of common dental problems in children, so you can be prepared should they occur. From cavities to teething, understanding these issues and taking the necessary steps to prevent and treat them will help ensure your child has a healthy smile for years to come.