The importance of your child’s oral health goes in hand with their overall well-being. We all want what is best for our kids, and in Hanover, we take healthcare very seriously over here. Hearing about pediatric dental problems that are common will help you get ahead of them so your child lives life seeing nothing but healthy smiles. Here is what you should know about common dental problems in kids and how parents can avoid them with the help of a family dentist in Hanover.
Tooth Decay
Issue:
It is one of the most common chronic conditions of childhood cavities, or tooth decay can affect as many as 15 percent to 25 percent of children up until they get their adult teeth. Plaque-plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and produces acids capable of eroding enamel.
Prevention:
- Brush and Floss Regularly: Have your child brush their teeth 2x a day with fluoride toothpaste, as well as floss.
- Healthy Diet: Limit sugary snacks and drinks that contribute to plaque build-up. Choose fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Regular Check-Ups: Making regular appointments with a pediatric dentist in Hanover will help you find and treat the first signs of decay.
Early Tooth Loss
Issue:
Early loss of deciduous teeth may lead to spacing problems in permanent dentition and hence, orthodontic malocclusion.
Prevention:
- Sports Mouthguards: Have your child use a mouthguard during sports activities to help prevent damage from injuries.
- Dental Sealants: Dental sealant is a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth, sealing off all possible spots where cavities can form.
Thumb Sucking
Issue:
Thumb sucking is a natural reflex of children which can cause improper alignment and bite development if it persists past the age of five.
Prevention:
Award them for not sucking: Give your children a treat or some type of reward when they do not suck their thumb.
Positive alternatives: Give the child alternative comfort items such as a soft toy, or a blanket.
Gum Disease
Issue:
Gingivitis, also known as gum disease is caused by plaque that builds up on the gum line and causes bleeding of the mouth.
Prevention:
- Good Oral Hygiene: Educate your kid on how to lightly brush their gums as well as teeth to eliminate plaque.
- Dental Check-Up: It is important to visit our pediatric dentist regularly which may help track and promote healthy gums.
Dental Anxiety
Issue:
Dental anxiety, or a fear of the dentist, can prevent you from getting this care at an earlier stage and cause dental issues to worsen over time.
Prevention:
- First Dental Visits: Start them young- it is important to get your child used to the dental office.
- Optimistic behavior: Never speak negatively about going to the dentist and desist from using any language that insinuates fear.
Hanover Preventive Dentistry
Hanover has top-notch pediatric dental care facilities that are focused on preventive dentistry. This is an area where pediatric dentists excel as they receive training on how to make dental visits more pleasant and less stressful for children. Fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and educational programs on oral hygiene are among the services they offer to keep your child dentally healthy.
Preventing typical pediatric dental problems starts with building healthy habits at a young age. Parents of Hanover, can help their kids avoid dental problems and keep them enjoying glowing healthy smiles with simple steps such as regular visits to a dentist and taking good care after cleaning every meal that they eat in daily life. So remember, being proactive about your oral health today means a brighter and more confident tomorrow.