Most Common Dental Problems In Children
There are dental problems in children that are very common, but almost always preventable. When they appear, the normal functions of the mouth, such as chewing, phonation and swallowing, are disturbed.
In the following lines we tell you the most common dental problems in children, their causes and treatments. We also remind you what you can do to keep your little one’s mouth healthy.
Most common dental problems in children
Dental caries
Of the dental problems in children it is the one that is observed most frequently. It is the loss of mineral tissue in the dental elements due to the action of the acids produced by the bacteria present in the mouth.
When the disease begins, small white spots are seen on the tooth surface. As they progress, there is a color change to black or brown and the loss of tissue, forming cavities or gaps in the teeth.
As we mentioned, the loss of the minerals that make up the dental element occurs due to the action of the acids produced by the bacteria present in the mouth when fermenting the sugars in the diet. Poor oral hygiene and high sugar intake predispose to the appearance of this pathology.
There is a particular form of tooth decay in younger children called “early childhood tooth decay” or “bottle tooth decay.” It is associated with the frequent consumption of sugary milk and the lack of hygiene after feeding. The permanence of the sugar on the dental surfaces favors the appearance of these fast-moving cavities, especially in the anterior teeth.
Consequences of this dental problem in children
The presence of cavities and its progress due to not treating it entails several complications in the child’s life:
- Presence of pain : when the depth of the lesion increases, the decay approaches the dental pulp, where the nerves are, causing sensitivity and pain.
- Destruction and loss of the tooth : the progression of the injury is wearing down and even breaking the dental element. This, in turn, causes movements of the neighboring pieces, malocclusions and biting problems.
- Infections : cavities can be complicated by infection of the tooth or of the hard or soft tissues neighboring the affected element.
- Damage to the permanent tooth : when the decay advances in a temporary element, it can affect the correct formation of the permanent tooth that is underneath.
- Low self-esteem and social problems : Broken and stained teeth can be a source of teasing that makes the child self-conscious.
Treatments for tooth decay
The type of treatment to reverse cavities will depend on the size and time of evolution of the same. An incipient caries can be treated with the therapeutic application of fluoride. For cavities with cavities and tissue loss it is necessary to clean and restore with fillings. Beyond the type of cavities, it is always necessary to treat them and slow their progress to avoid complications.
Dental trauma
Bumps on the teeth is another of the most common dental problems in children. They usually occur when little ones start to walk and are later associated with accidents during play or sports. The teeth most frequently affected are the upper incisors because they are the most exposed.
The blows can affect both baby teeth and permanent teeth. Part of the dental crown can break, break completely, move out of place, or even be thrown out of the mouth.
The type of dentition affected usually depends on the behavior to be followed, but always, before a blow to the mouth, it is advisable to go immediately to the dentist. In the event that the tooth comes out of the mouth, it must be sought and transported in milk or physiological solution.
The professional will examine the affected tissues and decide on the appropriate treatment. These can range from a simple placement of fluoride and subsequent controls, restorations or fillings, root canals or even the reimplantation of the piece in its place and its immobilization with splints. As we mentioned, it is necessary to go urgently to the dentist because the faster you act, the better the prognosis.
Malocclusions
Misaligned teeth and complications with normal biting are dental problems in children that appear on a regular basis. Observing the position of the teeth as they erupt and the relationship of the upper teeth to the lower teeth when biting is important to detect any abnormalities in the occlusion of the small ones.
Control at home and regular dental visits help to discover these problems early. The earlier they begin to be addressed, the easier and more comfortable the treatment is usually.
This type of dental problem in children can be caused by various reasons:
- Presence of dysfunctional habits such as finger sucking, prolonged use of the pacifier or bottle, and mouth breathing.
- Missing or premature loss of baby teeth.
- Hereditary and genetic factors.
- Bruxism.
The treatments will depend on the type and degree of malocclusion and also on the age of the child and the type of dentition present in the mouth. Depending on the case, they can be corrected with the use of orthotics, fixed orthodontics with braces or invisible orthodontics.
Gingivitis
The presence of bacterial plaque around the tooth can cause inflammation of the gums. They turn red, bleed easily, hurt, and there is bad breath in the mouth. The cause of this dental problem in children is faulty oral hygiene. The use of a toothbrush and dental floss and consultation with the pediatric dentist are usually sufficient to treat this condition.
How to avoid the most common dental problems in children?
Good oral hygiene practices and healthy behaviors will help keep your mouth healthy. Here are some tips to prevent dental problems in children:
- Maintain good oral hygiene : brush children’s teeth two or three times a day with a soft bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste. Complement with daily dental floss and, if the dentist recommends it, with mouthwashes.
- Avoid cariogenic foods : reduce or avoid the consumption of foods with high sugar content. It is recommended to give the little ones a varied and nutrient-rich diet.
- Eliminate harmful habits : in the cases of children who suck their fingers, bite their nails, breathe through their mouths, use a pacifier or a bottle for longer than recommended, it is necessary to seek help to eliminate these harmful practices for the mouth.
- Dental visits: Regular and early visits to the dentist help maintain a healthy mouth. The professional detects any problems early and advises on oral care.
Dental problems in children can be avoided
Dental problems in children can appear from an early age. There are several pathologies that frequently occur in the mouth of minors. A healthy mouth is necessary for the proper development of children’s lives. Therefore, proper oral hygiene, healthy practices and visits to the dentist will keep your smile healthy.
