Trying to keep track of your kid’s dental health may feel like managing a small, volatile science experiment. One minute they are sprouting like crazy, the next they are getting cavities.
And don’t even start talking about braces! It is an entire new world of metal mouth and sticky stuff. Here is a breakdown of some common kid dental dramas and how to handle them.
Cavities
Cavities are like those tiny monsters that love to hide in your kid’s teeth. They are caused by sugar-loving bacteria that turn into tooth-eating acids.
Kids are cavity magnets because they enjoy sugary snacks and may skip brushing a couple of times.
Parents have to look out for:
- Toothaches
- Spots on their teeth
- Stinky breathe
The best solution is proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits.
Kids Healthy Teeth is a pediatric dentistry in Katy. The dental care has board certified pediatric dentist specializing in offering beautiful smile to their patients through preventative care and dental education.
Dental injuries
Kids are little bundle of energies, which means accident happen. Teeth can get chipped or even knocked out during playtime. If a tooth comes out, keep it clean and tryr⁵ to pop it back in if you can.
If not, keep it in milk and rush to the dental clinic. The dentists are tooth-saving wizards! They fix it with some dental bonding solution.
Misalignment of teeth
Kids teeth can grow in like a wild garden – all over the place! This is normal, but sometimes teeth get so crowded they need a little extra help.
Dentist will suggest braces that will train the teeth and get them in line. Braces may seem frustrating for your kid but give them a beautiful smile and help to prevent bigger dental problems later.
Plaque buildup
Plaque is the yucky, sticky stuff that hangs out on your kid’s teeth. It is the bad bacteria that can turn into tartar, which is even worse.
Tartar can cause cavities and gum problems. Make sure your kids brush properly and visits the dentist for cleaning.
Thumb-sucking
Sucking thumb is comforting for kids, but can even mess with their teeth. It can make them grow crooked and change the shape of their mouth.
Many kids stop thumb-sucking on their own, but if it is a long-term habit, you need to break it. Talk to your dentist, they have ways to help break sucking thumb cycle and keep teeth healthy.
Gum diseases
Sometimes gums can be a real pain. Gingivitis is when your gums get red, swollen and may even bleed while brushing. It is basically your gum saying, ‘Hey, I am not happy!’ This happens when plaque sticks around for very long.
It can be easily fixed. Regular brushing and flossing twice a day and regular dental visits is highly recommended.
How can parents help?
Be their role model! Show your kids how it is done by brushing and flossing your own teeth regularly. Make it fun with cool toothbrushes and tasty toothpaste!
Don’t forget to visit the pediatric dental clinic because the dentist for kids is a good catcher of issues early.
Ditch the sugary stuff! Fill their tummies with fruits, veggies, and water! Their teeth will thank you later!