Pediatric dentistry focuses on the oral problems that occur in children. Many dental issues in kids are similar to those that occur in adults. Without proper treatment, dental problems can progress to misaligned teeth and poor oral health. If you want to maintain your child’s dental health, here are the common dental issues that pediatric dentistry professionals can treat.
This issue can sometimes happen to anyone. But if the child’s foul breath persists all day, there is likely to be a larger problem than the food the child ate. Bad breath results from bacteria buildup in the child’s mouth. These organisms feed on food particles and release a foul chemical called hydrogen sulfide. Other causes of bad breath are poor oral care, dry mouth, medications, and digestive problems. Seeing the dentist for professional dental cleanings and performing proper dental care practices can help prevent foul breath.
Many children suffer from this type of dental problem. Studies show that about 20% of five to 11-year-old kids have one tooth that has signs of decay. Once bacteria build up, plaque forms. This substance erodes the enamel, which leads to cavities.
With pediatric dentistry treatments, tooth decay is preventable. Regular flossing and brushing can remove food particles and plaque. Regular visits to the dentist can remove stubborn tartar. Limiting the intake of carbohydrate-rich foods can also reduce cavity formation.
Children can experience discomfort from eating or drinking hot or cold food and drinks. Pain may also occur even when teeth are exposed to cold air. Baby teeth or new adult teeth have thin enamel, making them more prone to wear. Using a hard-bristled toothbrush, eating acidic foods, and teeth grinding can wear the child’s teeth easily.
Pediatric dentistry treatments can clean the child’s teeth and apply dental sealants. The plastic resin material will cover and fill the cracks, which can strengthen the enamel. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush can clean the teeth without deteriorating the enamel. Talking to the dentist about the use of products for sensitive teeth is important before using them on kids. Limiting the child’s intake of acidic and sweet foods or drinks can also help decrease dental sensitivity.
It is easy for children to develop gingivitis. Inflamed gums can result from poor oral hygiene. Without prompt, proper treatment, this can lead to severe periodontitis and bone loss. Plaque that collects at the base of teeth can irritate the gums. The gumline becomes red and swollen. Gums will then recede and bleed easily.
Pediatric dentistry treatments will start with a proper diagnosis. The dentist will perform a physical dental examination. Dental X-rays allow the dentist to look underneath the gums and the jawbone. These imaging tests can also help the dentist identify where the problem areas are.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Dentist in Richmond, TX
Children love carbohydrate-rich foods and drinks. These treats provide them quick boosts of energy that they need for their active lives. But there is a price to consuming these treats, and that is the emergence of dental problems. Pediatric dentistry professionals can perform proper tests and checks to determine the extent of the problem. Working with your dentist can help keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy.
Request an appointment or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at 832-579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.
Visiting a pediatric dentistry office with your child ensures his or her future relationship with oral hygiene and dentists, in general. Whenever your child suffers from oral injuries, consider making an appointment with your pediatric dentist to uncover any underlying problems. For instance, injuries to the tongue and teeth could indicate a deeper jaw or…
Fluoridated water is part of pediatric dentistry. It is a convenient and easy way to strengthen and protect teeth at an early age. Many areas have fluoridated water, which is a definite advantage. If you want to know why a dentist will likely recommend fluoridated water, here are the details.Studies show that almost all sources…
Nutrition is an important part of pediatric dentistry. Having balanced amounts of vitamins and minerals can strengthen and protect the teeth. Proper nutrients also fuel dental function. If you want to know how important nutrition is for your child’s oral health, here are the details from a pediatric dentistry professional.Children are still developing. They need…
Teeth brushing is one of the most important oral hygiene basics, as it removes plaque from teeth. However, the toothbrush kids use can impact how effective this practice is. To optimize toothbrushing, parents need to find a brush that fits their child's needs. Fortunately, there are many options out there.A pediatric dentist can help parents…
Children brushing and flossing their teeth twice a day are important oral hygiene basics, but what about using mouthwash? Is it a necessary part of keeping their teeth healthy? While mouthwash is not typically included in the oral hygiene basics recommended by pediatric dentists, it can still offer several benefits when used correctly.One of the…