As parents and caregivers, we want our children to have healthy teeth and a smile they can feel confident in. However, we understand that dental problems can affect children of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. This week, your local MA dentist office, Smile Boutique, is talking about some common dental problems in children and providing tips on how to prevent them.
Cavities
Cavities, or tooth decay, are one of the most common dental problems in children. They are caused by bacteria that produce acid, which eats away at the tooth enamel. Children who consume more sugary or starchy foods and drinks are more susceptible to cavities.
To prevent cavities, make sure your child brushes their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flosses once a day. Encourage them to eat a healthy, balanced diet and limit their intake of sugary or starchy foods and drinks.
Gum disease
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a condition that affects the gums and the bones that support the teeth. It is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth and gums. Gum disease can cause bleeding, swollen, and tender gums, bad breath, and tooth loss.
To help combat gum disease, ensuring your child brushes their teeth twice a day, as mentioned previously can make all the difference. In addition to a healthy diet, visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings is also great in preventative care
Tooth sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a common dental problem in children. It’s caused by the exposure of the tooth’s inner layer, which can cause discomfort or pain when eating or drinking hot or cold foods and drinks. To prevent tooth sensitivity, ensure your child brushes their teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoids brushing too hard.
Malocclusion
Malocclusion, or misaligned teeth, is a common dental problem in children. It can be caused by genetics, thumb-sucking, and other habits. Malocclusion can cause problems with biting, chewing, and speaking, as well as potential self-esteem issues. To prevent malocclusion, you can encourage your child to stop thumb sucking and other habits that can affect the alignment of their teeth. If necessary, we recommend visiting your local MA dentist office such as Smile Boutique for a consultation for more infomation.
Choose Smile Boutique as Your Local MA Dentist Office!
At Smile Boutique, we care about making your child’s visit to the dentist a comfortable and stress-free experience. Preventative care is vital to ensuring your child has healthy teeth and gums, for years to come! If you’re interested in scheduling an appointment with us, we encourage you to check out our website for more information. We look forward to seeing you!
Follow us on Facebook for updates or call (781) 729-1444 to schedule an appointment with us today.
