What Are the Most Common Dental Problems in Children?

When should you start looking for a pediatric dentist in Zebulon? Pediatric dentists suggest that you find one the moment your child’s first tooth erupts. A pediatric dentist can answer all your questions about your child’s dental health. 

Many parents make the mistake of ignoring minor dental problems in their children without realizing that these seemingly trivial issues can potentially cause permanent damage to their teeth and gums as they grow older. Even if your child’s teeth are not permanent, you still need to address them. 

pediatric dentist in Zebulon about to check patient's teeth

What Are the Most Common Dental Issues in Children 

Cavities and Tooth Decay 

Did you know that tooth decay is considered one of America’s most common childhood diseases? When cavities aren’t treated, they can lead to pain and infection, making it hard to speak and eat. It will also affect their mood. 

CDC reports reveal that more than 50% of children aged between six and eight have at least one cavity in their baby teeth. Meanwhile, adolescents aged between 12 and 19 have at least a single cavity in their permanent teeth. 

Regardless of age, cavities should be treated as soon as they are detected. The good news is that they are 100% preventable as long as you assist your child in brushing and flossing their teeth. 

We recommend you supervise your children to ensure they use the proper brushing strokes and the correct flossing technique. Taking them to a pediatric dentist for preventive dentistry will also lower their risk of developing cavities and tooth decay. 

Bad Breath 

Sad to say, your baby’s sweet-smelling breath doesn’t last forever. Their breath can smell depending on what they are eating or drinking. By the time you start introducing foods and drinks other than milk, you can expect their breath to smell like that of adults. 

The best way to avoid bad breath is to brush their teeth in the morning. 

Morning breath results from bacteria, plaque and food debris that have accumulated during the night while they sleep. If bad breath continues to be a problem, pediatric dentists recommend swishing it with mouthwash. 

Also, when brushing, remind your child to include their tongue as it harbors hundreds of odor-causing bacteria. If they are brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash and the problem persists, you need to consult with a pediatric dentist to find out what’s causing the problem. 

Tooth Sensitivity 

Does your child grimace after drinking a cold glass of orange juice? It’s not because it didn’t taste nice It might be because it caused tooth pain. Dentists call this tooth sensitivity. Exposure to hot or cold foods and drinks can lead to pain when your child has sensitive teeth. 

Tooth sensitivity can be an underlying symptom of a dental problem like receding gums or tooth decay. Make sure your child uses a toothbrush with soft bristles to deal with tooth sensitivity. 

Hard-bristled toothbrushes can cause enamel erosion, and if your child continues using one, tooth sensitivity is a likely outcome. A dental visit for tooth sensitivity is helpful as it allows the pediatric dentist to apply a sealant over your child’s teeth to protect the grooves and pits that trigger pain. 

Thumb-Sucking 

Babies thumb-suck to self-soothe. While it’s okay for babies to do that, parents should be wary and discourage thumb sucking as they grow older. Thumb-sucking can negatively impact your child’s oral health, especially if their permanent teeth have already erupted. 

Over time, their teeth will shift and result in an overbite. An incorrect bite can open your child up to other oral problems. Taking your child to a pediatric dentist can be helpful since they can offer tips on how to break the habit. 

Tongue Thrusting 

When babies switch from bottles and breastfeeding to solid foods, their tongues and mouths move differently as they attempt to swallow. Unfortunately, as they grow, they continue thrusting their tongues forward. This habit will eventually lead to speech development problems and improper tooth growth. 

Teeth Grinding 

Kids often subconsciously grind their teeth as a form of coping mechanism when their baby teeth erupt. Most times, children outgrow this behavior, but unfortunately, some develop an unhealthy habit of teeth grinding. 

If teeth grinding isn’t stopped, it will eventually lead to premature enamel erosion. Talking to a pediatric dentist can help prevent teeth grinding. Usually, they advise parents to let their kids wear night guards. 

pediatric dentist in Zebulon performing oral exam on a girl patient

Looking for a Pediatric Dentist in Zebulon? 

One of the best ways to protect your child’s dental health is to partner with a pediatric dentist. At Tyron Family Dentistry, we love building long-term relationships with our patients. We make sure to give personalized attention and care in our clean and modern office. Contact us today for an appointment. 

★★★★★
“I moved to Raleigh about one year ago due to work and decided to google a dental office near my apartment. I came upon Tryon Family Dentistry and because of the great reviews I decided to give it a shot. I’m so glad I went to this place because I LOVE it. Dr. Leo is great and is also very nice. Gloria usually does my teeth cleaning in which she is wonderful. She is nice, sweet and is always gentle. If you’re looking for a new dental office, give this place a chance and you will also come to love it!”
- Ger Vue
★★★★★
“First time there and I love it! Great place and friendly staff!”
- Tameka Brown
★★★★★
“Amazing office. The dentists here do great work. Replaced four of my front teeth with veneers and worked with me (for free) when the treatment plan didn’t go exactly as expected due to my chronic bruxism. They always explain what they’re doing, and why. I thoroughly trust this team with my dental care.”
- Jeff Wilson
★★★★★
“Staff is amazing. So gentle but very knowledgeable. Great experiences so far with cleanings and filling replacement.”
- Trish M.
★★★★★
“Love this place – I can’t recommend Tryon Family Dentistry enough! I’ve been coming to them for about 3 years and I’ve never even considered going anywhere else. The office is nice and the people are great.”
- Molly Katolas
★★★★★
“Wonderful service! Always very polite and professional. They make you feel very comfortable especially when your scared of the dentist. Will definitely keep going back!”
- stacey wells
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