Understanding the top concerns in kids’ oral health
Recently, a surge in attention to children’s oral health has emerged, with more families understanding the importance of early dental care. From tooth decay in children to procedures like kid’s crowns and baby root canals, parents and guardians are becoming more informed. We came across an insightful article on WebMD about oral health problems in children, and here, we at Simcoe Kids Dental provide interpretative commentary and insights. (Source: WebMD, Oral Health Problems In Children, written by WebMD Editorial Contributors, medically reviewed by Evan Frisbee, DMD on January 24, 2022, https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/oral-health-problems-children ).
1. Baby Bottle Tooth Decay:
WebMD describes this as a common issue among infants and toddlers. It happens when sweetened liquids cling to an infant’s teeth for a long time, such as when a child goes to sleep with a bottle.
“Tooth decay in children, especially baby bottle tooth decay, can lead to severe dental issues later on,” shares Simcoe Kids Dental. “It’s crucial for parents to understand that the early stages of a child’s life lay the foundation for their oral health. Ensuring they don’t sleep with a bottle of sweetened liquid can make all the difference.”
2. How Do I prevent Baby Bottle Tooth Decay:
The article suggests that parents should avoid filling bottles with sugary drinks and refrain from letting children sleep with a bottle.
Simcoe Kids Dental comments, “Caring for kid’s teeth from a young age is paramount. Simple preventative measures, such as monitoring the content of baby bottles and establishing an early dental treatment plan, can save your child from potential oral health issues.”
3. Thumb sucking:
According to WebMD, it is normal for children to suck on things. Thumb sucking becomes a concern if it continues after the age of 5, as it can cause improper dental growth and misalignment of teeth.
Simcoe Kids Dental observes, “While thumb sucking can be a source of comfort for younger children, its extended practice can lead to speech issues and, as the article mentioned, misaligned teeth. Early intervention can aid in ensuring healthy dental development.”
4. Tips to Help Your child stop thumb sucking:
WebMD offers practical suggestions like praising kids for not sucking and providing alternatives like a comfort toy or treat when they refrain from the habit.
“Positive reinforcement often works wonders,” notes Simcoe Kids Dental. “Engaging kids in discussions about the importance of oral health and involving them in their own dental treatment plan can also help curtail habits like thumb sucking.”
5. Tongue thrusting:
The article defines tongue thrusting as a child pressing their tongue against the lips with a force that can lead to orthodontic problems.
“We’ve noticed an increase in awareness about tongue thrusting,” says Simcoe Kids Dental. “Like with a child’s loose tooth, it’s something that might seem harmless initially but can lead to orthodontic treatments later on. Early detection and correction can mitigate its impact.”
6. Lip sucking:
Lip sucking, as described by WebMD, involves repeatedly holding the lower lip just beneath the upper front teeth, leading to overbite or other dental issues.
“Lip sucking, much like thumb sucking, can pose long-term dental challenges,” observes Simcoe Kids Dental. “Engaging in regular dental check-ups and maintaining an active dental treatment plan can help in identifying and addressing such habits early on.”
7. Early tooth loss:
WebMD mentions that early tooth loss arises due to tooth decay, trauma, or insufficient space in the jaw.
If teeth fall out before the arrival of permanent ones, the adjacent teeth might tilt or move. Consequently, when a permanent tooth attempts to surface in its designated spot, there might be inadequate space.
Simcoe Kids Dental reflects, “A child’s loose tooth might be a natural occurrence, but early tooth loss requires immediate attention. Procedures like kid’s crowns or, in some cases, baby root canals might be necessary. Ensuring your child follows a good dental hygiene routine and has regular check-ups can prevent many such issues.”
In conclusion, understanding and addressing children’s oral health concerns early on is essential. With insights from experts like Simcoe Kids Dental, families can be better equipped to ensure their children’s oral health remains in the best condition throughout their developmental years.
