Healthy Smiles for Kids: Preventing and Treating Common Dental Issues with Pediatric Dentistry

What Is Pediatric Dentistry?

It is an area of dentistry majoring in oral care for infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatric dentists undergo additional training beyond their dental school education to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to provide specialized care for children.

What Are the Common Dental Issues in Pediatric Dentistry?

The most common oral problems dentists address in pediatric dentistry in Stockton, CA, are:

1. Tooth decay – is severely prevalent in children, caused by plaque buildup on the teeth. The buildup can lead to cavities and tooth loss if left untreated.
2. Malocclusion – refers to misaligned teeth or bites, which may cause problems with speech and eating and can also affect teeth appearance.
3. Thumb sucking – is a common habit in infants and young children. However, it should stop as they grow up. If it continues beyond age five, children incur problems with teeth alignment meriting orthodontic treatment.
4. Bruxism – is a condition of excessive grinding or clenching of teeth, especially at night. It can lead to tooth wear and damage.
5. Periodontal disease – is an oral infection damaging the gum tissue, chiefly caused by plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth. The condition causes redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums.
6. Dental emergencies – children are prone to urgent dental problems, such as a knocked-out tooth, broken tooth, or severe toothache.

Why Are Early Dental Screenings and Check-Ups Important for Children?

Don’t you think there must be a reason why our dental team at Quail Lakes Dental Care insists on early dental exams for children? Early dental screenings and check-ups are essential for children for several reasons:

1. Detecting, diagnosing, and treating oral conditions: A dentist can identify problems through regular dental check-ups so (s)he can address them early before they become more serious problems.
2. Developing good oral hygiene habits: Dentists teach children good oral hygiene habits during some of the routine visits for dental exams and cleanings, such as brushing and flossing correctly. Developing such habits early will promote good dental health throughout a child’s life.
3. Monitoring tooth and jaw development: Dentists closely monitor the child’s teeth and jaw at different ages, identifying any issues early. It helps prevent problems with tooth alignment or bite issues.
4. Building a friendly relationship with the dentist: Routine dental visits allow children to feel more comfortable with dentists, reducing anxiety and dental-related phobias. A positive attitude towards dental care encourages children to maintain good oral health habits long term.

Role of Parents in Promoting Good Oral Health for Their Children

Ideally, all parents should monitor their child’s dental health and seek prompt treatment for any problems. However, many parents only attend to their kids’ dental health when there is an urgent problem. Instead, the role of parents in pediatric dental care should entail the following:

1. Early dental visits: Parents should aim to schedule their child’s first dental visit by the time their first tooth erupts, usually by the time they turn 1.
2. Start dental care at home early: Parents should promote good oral health habits, including gently cleaning teeth with a soft, damp fabric or a toothbrush designed for infants.
3. Establish good oral hygiene habits: Parents should motivate kids into good oral hygiene, like brushing and flossing their teeth daily with fluoride toothpaste. Ensure you supervise your child’s brushing technique until they can do it independently. If you start early, kids will learn to keep their teeth clean around age eight.
4. Provide a healthy diet: A healthy diet should be low in sugary and acidic foods and drinks. Such a diet prevents tooth decay and promotes good oral health. Children ought to eat a balanced diet including, plenty of fruits and vegetables.
5. Regular dental check-ups: They identify and attend to any dental complications early on and promote good oral health habits.
6. Lead by example: Good oral hygiene is not just for the child. Allow your child to see you visit a dental office in Stockton, CA, routinely, and also brush and floss your teeth. It will encourage them to adopt these habits and maintain good oral health.