Teeth development problems in children

Identifying teeth development problems and dental issues in children is crucial, as dental problems if left untreated can worsen over time and lead to more serious health conditions.

Most children often start experiencing problems with their teeth as soon as their first tooth appears. However, dental problems become more prevalent between the ages of 2 and 7, when children are still learning to brush their teeth. And as a parent, it is important to be aware of the most common dental issues in young children so you know what steps to take and can make sure that your child is getting the best dental care possible.

Early detection of tooth problems is important for timely intervention and the prevention of complications. Below, see some of the most common tooth development problems in children and how they may be treated.

1. Tooth decay.

   Tooth decay is the most common childhood chronic disease, not only in Canada but also around the world. Also known as dental caries or cavities, tooth decay occurs when bacteria break down sugars into acids, which eventually damage tooth tissues. This is why it is important to make sure that your child doesn’t consume too many sugary foods or drinks. Also, it is recommended that their teeth be brushed regularly.

   Tooth decay is diagnosed in a child based on his/her medical history, an exam of his/her mouth, and dental X-rays. Treatment, on the other hand, will depend on his/her age, health condition, symptoms, and severity.

   In most cases, treatment involves removing the decayed part of your child’s tooth and replacing it with a filing. Fortunately, tooth decay is preventable. So, to help prevent tooth decay in your child, make sure that you brush your child’s teeth as soon as his/her first tooth appears. Also, it’s best to start flossing your child’s teeth daily after age two (2). And, of course, schedule routine dental exams for your child every six months. Here at Springbank Dental, our dentists will examine your child’s teeth for signs of early decay and demonstrate good brushing and flossing.

2. Tooth discolouration.

   You’ve noticed that your child’s teeth seem discoloured. Should you be worried?

   There are different reasons why your child might have discoloured or yellow teeth. This is why it is important to figure out the cause before getting it treated. These reasons usually include inadequate brushing, tooth injury, excessive fluoride, tooth decay, weak enamel, poor oral hygiene, and poor dental habits.

   Tooth discolouration in children may be treated through dental cleaning, dental veneers, and restorative dentistry. As soon as you see stains and discolouration on your child’s teeth, visit a dental clinic. And if you’re in Calgary, you may go to Springbank Dental and let your child experience his/her first dental visit. During the visit, our dentists will conduct a thorough examination of your child’s teeth to determine the cause of the discolouration and recommend the appropriate treatment.

3. Malocclusion.

   A combination of genetic and environmental factors frequently cause malocclusion in children. While it is typically an inherited condition, it can also be caused by jaw injuries or trauma, dental issues, thumb sucking, tumours in the mouth or jaw, and airway obstruction, among others.

   Symptoms of malocclusion include changes in the appearance of your child’s face, improper alignment of the teeth, discomfort when biting or chewing, speech changes, frequent biting of the inner cheeks or tongue, and breathing through the mouth rather than the nose.

   Fortunately, if your child has mild malocclusion, treatment might not be necessary. However, getting braces to correct the position of the teeth or having retainers to realign teeth may be recommended if your child’s malocclusion is severe. Other treatment options are the removal of teeth to correct overcrowding, surgery to reshape the jaw, and bonding of teeth.

Schedule your child’s dental checkup in Calgary, AB Springbank Dental is excited to welcome you and your children here in our dental clinic. Contact us today for queries regarding dentistry for children at (587) 317-9910. We’d be happy to show you how great a dental visit can be.