Problems & Solutions: Recognizing Common Dental Issues in Kids

Poor oral health is associated with a number of other health issues, from cardiovascular disease to pneumonia and even pregnancy complications. So it’s best to catch dental issues early and encourage healthy habits young.

Thankfully, the overwhelming majority of oral health problems are actually preventable! We encourage you not to be worried or afraid of what could happen to your little one as a result of kids dental issues.

Instead, we invite you to learn more about some of the most common dental problems in children below along with preventative solutions to nip them in the bud early.

Common Dental Problems in Kids

Tooth Decay

Did you know that cavities are “the most common chronic disease of childhood in the United States”, according to the CDC? It’s unfortunate, but also true.

Cavities stem from tooth decay, or the breakdown and destruction of tooth enamel. While the process of cavity formation is the same for both adults and children (it all starts with bacteria in plaque feeding on excess sugars in the mouth, leading to the production of enamel-destroying acids), baby teeth are more prone to cavities than adult teeth due to their thinner layer of enamel.

Periodontal (Gum) Disease

Along with tooth decay, gum disease is one of the most serious health issues that face little ones today. Like tooth decay, gum disease starts with plaque. Specifically, when plaque builds up over time, hardening and turning into tartar, it can lead to gum disease.

In its early stages (Gingivitis), gum disease may look like:

• Gums that look redder or more swollen than usual
• Gums that feel sensitive when touched or brushed
• Gums that bleed easily while brushing
• Persistent bad breath, even after brushing

In its later stages (Periodontitis), gum disease may look like:

• Gums that recede, making teeth appear longer
• Teeth feeling loose or seeming to have shifted
• Pus forming between the teeth and gums
• Mouth has a persistent unpleasant taste
• Permanent teeth shift or become loose enough to fall out

Teeth Grinding & Toothaches

While toothaches can occur for a variety of reasons, including cavities and gingivitis, they can also be the result of teeth grinding at night, which is a common problem in children. Toothaches can also be caused by your child clenching their teeth during sleep.

Teeth grinding, in turn, can stem from many things, including:

• Teething
• Exploration
• Stress
• Earache or infection
• Neurological conditions

While most little ones don’t experience long-term negative effects of teeth grinding in baby teeth, dentists often recommend that children whose adult teeth have grown in wear a mouth guard if they still grind their teeth.

Thumb Sucking

Prolonged thumb sucking can contribute to toddler lisps, jaw issues, palatal narrowing, and even malocclusions, or movement of the teeth, not to mention finger calluses and social issues.

While thumb-sucking is fairly common, stopping this habit early is best if possible.

Bite Problems & Orthodontic Issues

Bite problems, otherwise known as malocclusions, can include misaligned or crowded teeth, overbites, underbites, and more.

These issues are more than just aesthetic. Malocclusions can also cause a number of other issues, including:

• Speech problems
• Difficulty eating
• Changes in facial structure
• Tongue and cheek biting

This is why it’s important to bring your little one to an orthodontist by age 7.

Solutions and Preventative Measures

While issues like tongue tie in kids may require surgical intervention, most of the above adult and baby teeth problems can be prevented simply by developing smart dental care habits.

Here’s some more specific advice on how to solve each issue discussed above.

• For Tooth Decay & Gum Disease: Limit sugar and refined carb intake. Eat a healthy and well-balanced diet. Brush twice a day and floss once a day. Rinse the mouth with water after eating sugary foods during the daytime. Don’t skip out on teeth cleanings! Go to the dentist regularly for checkups.
• For Teeth Grinding: Provide a mouth guard.
• For Thumb Sucking: Address the root of the issue, whether that is anxiety, boredom, teething, or exploration.
• For Bite Problems: Visit an orthodontist to get issues diagnosed and develop a treatment plan that is tailor-made to your little one and their specific needs.

The Super Dentists to the Rescue!

We are experts in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics and have seen it all! From crowded baby teeth to cavities from bottles and improper oral care; gingivitis in adults to overbites, we can handle all of your dental needs both big and small.

See what’s going on with your child’s oral health & get them healthier starting now!