Children should learn early about proper dental care and the importance of regular visits to the dentist’s office. However, even with good oral hygiene, kids may still experience dental problems that should be addressed by the dentist. Here are some of the most common tooth and gum issues that kids may have:
Cavities: There is no dental problem more prevalent among children and young adults than cavities. A cavity is a hole in the tooth caused by the buildup of plaque. When people consume foods of any kind, bacteria in the mouth converts the food to acid; the acid combines with saliva, bacteria, and stuck-on foods to create plaque. Proper brushing and flossing can reduce the problems that plaque causes. Signs of a cavity include sensitivity to hot or cold items, pain or tenderness of the tooth, and visible holes in the teeth.
Gum Disease: Children and adults alike can suffer from gum disease which is characterized by bleeding gums, redness, soreness and swelling. When plaque is present at the base and in-between spaces of teeth it eats away at the gums. This condition is called gingivitis. To help fight against gingivitis regular cleaning and flossing is recommend.
Sports / Dental Injury: When kids are playing they are more than likely not going to worry about losing or chipping a tooth. Although this may be the case these injuries are more common than not. If your child happens to knock out a tooth then there may be a chance of reattaching it. You must seek immediate dental attention and keep the tooth clean and moist. Do not rinse the tooth with water, but rather put it in a cup of milk until you get to the dentist. Talk to your dentist about fitting your child for a mouth guard to prevent sports or playtime-related tooth injuries.
To keep your child’s dental health at its best, you should schedule regular checkups and cleanings. Not only does Dr. VanCamp provide personalized care for the whole family, but we can also help your child build good dental hygiene habits. To schedule an appointment, call our office at 415-397-4233
Source: Creek Road Dental Care
