19 Nov 8 Most Common Dental Problems Children Suffer From

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, nearly 70 percent of children experience at least one dental problem by age 12. While many of these issues can be addressed through proper brushing and flossing, some will require the care of an expert, like a family dentist near you. Here are some of the most common child dental problems to look out for. 

8 Most Common Child DENTAL PROBLEMS

Here are some of the most common children dental problems they suffer from and how your family dentist can help solve them.

1. Cavities

Cavities are one of the most common dental problems children suffer from. They’re caused by bacteria that live in your mouth and produce acids that eat away at your tooth enamel.

If you don’t brush and floss regularly, the bacteria can form a hard, sticky film called plaque. Plaque can cause cavities, gum disease, and other serious dental problems. 

Some common symptoms of cavities include teeth sensitivity, discoloration, pain or discomfort when chewing or biting, persistent bad breath (halitosis), difficulty swallowing liquids or solids, loose teeth, or an open sore where the tooth used to be. 

A family dentist can help prevent cavities by teaching you how to brush and floss properly and by providing regular checkups and cleanings.

2. Gum Disease

The name gum disease may make it sound like just another kind of problem for gums but this condition can be more dangerous than it sounds. 

Gum disease has two main types: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the milder form of gum disease in which gums turn red and swollen with inflammation around your teeth.

3. Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease of childhood. Left untreated, it can cause pain, infection, and even tooth loss. 

A family dentist can help prevent tooth decay by teaching your child how to brush and floss properly and by providing regular checkups and cleanings. 

If your child does develop cavities, a family dentist can also provide treatment to restore their smile. One option for kids who are prone to developing tooth decay is sealants. 

Sealants fill in tiny grooves on teeth that are susceptible to decay so bacteria have nowhere to stick. As with any dental procedure, sealants require an appointment at a dental office and are typically covered by insurance plans.

4. Tooth Sensitivity

One of the most common children dental problems they suffer from is tooth sensitivity. This can be caused by brushing hard, not using fluoride toothpaste, eating acidic foods, and grinding your teeth. 

A family dentist can help by providing a child with a custom-fitted mouthguard to wear at night, which will protect their teeth from grinding. They can also give advice on how to brush properly and what type of toothpaste to use. 

If you think your child may have sensitive teeth, it’s important to talk to their dentist as soon as possible. As they grow older and their jaws widen, the pain will likely go away but if left untreated it could cause permanent damage.

5. Receding Gums

Another common dental problem children suffer from is receding gums. This can happen for a number of reasons, including plaque build-up, brushing too hard, or genetics. 

A family dentist can help by cleaning your child’s teeth and removing any tartar that has built up. 

They may also recommend using a special toothpaste or mouthwash to help prevent receding gums. The dentist might prescribe antibiotics if the cause is an infection in addition to treating the symptoms. 

6. Orthodontic Issues

An orthodontic issue is when the teeth are not aligned properly. This can cause a number of problems, including difficulty chewing and an inability to clean the teeth properly. 

A family dentist can help by examining the child’s teeth and mouth and recommending the best course of treatment. 

In some cases, this may involve braces or other corrective devices. Other times, it may be as simple as tooth extraction or jaw surgery. 

7. Root Canal

One of the most common children dental problems involves tooth decay that has progressed too far before being treated. When this happens, there is often pain and infection that need to be addressed in order for the child to have a healthy smile again. 

A family dentist can address the problem and recommend the best solution for your child before it becomes a major dental health issue. 

8. Toothache

A toothache can be caused by many things, including cavities, gum disease, and even teething. A family dentist can help diagnose the cause of your child’s toothache and recommend treatment options. In some cases, a simple filling may be all that is needed to relieve the pain. 

In other cases, more extensive dental work may be required. Either way, a family dentist can help get your child’s smile back on track. Remember, it’s never too early for your child to see the dentist!

Take Care of the Common Dental Problems AT brookside Dental

Brookside Dental Arts is a leading provider of a wide range of dental health services in Pennington, NJ, including kids’ dentistry. 

If you or your child is worried about any of these common child dental problems contact us today at 609-737-7662 to learn more about our dental services for children! We also provide supplements such as tooth vitamins as well as other dental accessories like sealants, athletic mouth guards, for kids, and filings.