COMMON DENTAL ISSUES

Today, most parents are aware of the importance of regular dental visits for kids. But they may not be getting all the information they need to ensure their children have healthy teeth and gums. If you think your child may have one or more of these common dental issues, it’s important to see a dentist right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the problem from getting worse.

Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease. It happens when acids attack the tooth enamel, causing cavities. If not treated, tooth decay can lead to cavities, serious infections, pain and even tooth loss. Cavities are caused by bacteria. It’s usually best to have the cavity filled, even if it’s not in a permanent tooth, since there is a risk of the tooth becoming sensitive or painful and the bacteria could grow, requiring the tooth be pulled. Or, it could even spread to other teeth. Baby teeth hold space in a child’s mouth for permanent teeth. Cavities and tooth decay are common dental issues that can be treated by your pediatric dentist. 

If the dentist says a filling is needed, you will need to discuss how to numb the area so the dentist can fill the cavity. Repairing a cavity requires drilling, so a shot of numbing medicine from a needle is required. If your child is concerned by these prospects, speak with Dr. Kim about using nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or another sedative to help calm your child and make it possible for the dentist to complete the work.

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums. It can happen when plaque builds up on the teeth and gums, causing irritation. If not treated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, which is a more serious form of gum disease. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss, and it’s important to get it treated as soon as possible. We will work with you and your child to reverse the gum disease

Bad breath can be caused by different things, such as poor oral hygiene, eating certain foods (like garlic or onions), gum disease or a sinus infection. Some children have bad breath because of their oral health. This can be caused by not brushing their teeth enough or decay that make their breath smell bad. If your child has chronic bad breath, they need to see a dentist to ensure it’s not caused by something in their mouth

Canker sores are small, painful ulcers that can form on the gums, tongue or inside of the cheek. They are usually white or yellow with a red border. Canker sores can be caused by stress, a deficiency of certain nutrients (like iron or vitamin B12), food allergies or toothpaste allergies. Some people are unable to use certain brands or types of toothpaste. If your child is having chronic canker sores, try switching toothpaste. If you don’t know what’s causing them, let us know.

Teething occurs when baby and toddler teeth start to erupt. It can cause pain and irritability. This time can be rough for them and their parents. They may have a lot of trouble sleeping and might be uncomfortable. Gently rubbing their gums with a clean finger, a small cool spoon, or a moist gauze pad can be soothing. A teether made of solid rubber for your child to chew on may also help.

Some children suck their thumbs or use a pacifier. This is not a bad thing, but it can cause dental problems. Most of these common dental issues won’t develop if thumb-sucking or pacifier use drops off by the time the permanent teeth are in. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians recommend weaning children from the pacifier even earlier – beginning at six months to one year of age – due to both the potential for common dental issues and the increased risk for ear infections that prolonged pacifier use can cause. Children who suck their thumb or use a pacifier for a long time may be at increased risk for: