Oral and dental health is of utmost importance for children to ensure that they grow to have beautiful, happy smiles and overall great health.
What can we expect of their dental development each year?
Although each child may be different in their own development, parents can refer to dental milestones from infancy to adolescence to get an idea of how their child’s dental well-being is progressing.
Keep reading to find out more about what to expect, from newborns to adolescents. This article provides the necessary roadmap to know what to expect from year to year.
A closer look at dental development
Dental growth refers to the eruption of the teeth from the gums, as well as the size and structure of the teeth.
Dental development refers to the important moments that shape the child’s overall dental health.
Let’s look at different stages regarding dental growth and development. Remember that the ages in this article are only referential, and your kid may have different stages according to their specific developmental moment.
From birth to their first birthday
The dentist and other parents regularly tell new parents about the “teething years”. This teething phase refers to the development and eruption of baby teeth from their gums within the first year of the child’s life.
Parents can expect their baby to show its first teeth between 6 and 10 months, although it is difficult to predict precisely when this may happen. Baby teeth start in the jaw, and the two bottom teeth (or the lower central incisors) are often the first to appear, although some children may be different. For example, having no teeth at age one is entirely normal; some babies are even born with teeth.
There is also a wide range of experiences with teething, with some babies experiencing much discomfort and others having no issues at all. You can observe teething symptoms: drooling, crankiness, red and sore gums, and difficulty sleeping. Parents can offset the symptoms by distracting kids from their pain through playing games, offering teething rings to chew on, and offering chilled baby foods to relieve the discomfort.
From 1 to 3 years
If all goes well, parents can see the formulation of their child’s ‘baby smile’ beginning to take shape. By the age of three, the child should be sporting 20 baby teeth.
Once the child has a mouth full of teeth, parents can begin to organise their first visit to the dentist for an appointment. This visit will ensure that all the teeth have adequately sprouted and that all the gums and the rest of their dental health are well. Parents should schedule dental visits every six months.
Parents can think of their child’s baby teeth as the foundation to build their speech development and create the space necessary for their adult teeth in adolescence. As soon as any teeth appear, parents can begin to softly brush their child’s teeth and floss between them daily. This way, parents will help build a healthy habit that will foster the child’s health well into adulthood.
From 3 to 5 years
Welcome to the “preschool period”, where the child may rapidly improve their motor skills. For example, they develop a stronger sense of spatial awareness and gain independence in completing some basic tasks independently, even tooth brushing.
The development of teeth during this period is also crucial for improving speech development. Parents can supervise their child to ensure they are brushing correctly.
Thumb sucking, although a common habit during this period, if left persistent after the age of four, can impact tooth development, particularly the front teeth which may push forwards and cause problems long term. Parents can continue the development of teeth through healthy and whole foods to improve dental and gum health.
From 5 to 8 years
Children may start to notice their teeth starting to move in their mouths, with some loosening and moving from side to side, until they eventually come out entirely. This is to create space for when their adult teeth begin to erupt.
At around 6 years of age, the first molars begin to show, often behind the rest of the baby teeth at the back of the gums. These teeth are responsible for 90% of chewing, and there are two in each jaw. From the beginning of this ‘early school’ period, children will need around 6 years to lose all their teeth. Adult teeth will replace these spaces. The exception is their wisdom teeth, which may or may not come after age 13. Some discomfort may be expected, but nothing compared to the pain experienced during the first baby teething period (lucky us!).
From 9 to 12 years
We are now in the middle childhood period, and parents will probably see all their child’s baby teeth fall out of their mouths. The eruption and growth of their kids’ permanent teeth are slowly coming into view.
This may be a tricky period, as children may not have developed enough space for all their teeth, and misalignment or overcrowding may take place. This is why an orthodontic evaluation may be necessary. An orthodontic evaluation at this age will ensure that there is enough time to initiate pre-emptive measures for better alignment and oral comfort.
Some parents may seek an evaluation as young as 7, but so long as parents work with their dentist twice a year, there should be enough opportunity to help develop happy, healthy smiles.
From 13 years onwards
Most teenagers should have 28 adult teeth by the time they are 12 or 13 years old. One to four wisdom teeth, which are extra molars located at the very back of the gums, may erupt between 17 and 26 years of age. Not all teenagers may need to have them removed. Remember, regular check-ups are the key to avoiding overcrowding or other dental issues.
Teenagers are not renowned for their healthy diets, which is why guidance from parents is important to ensure plenty of water is being drunk for hydration and fruits, vegetables, and whole foods are eaten. These contribute to healthy gums and teeth. Similarly, healthy brushing and flossing habits ensure one’s health long into adulthood.
Additionally, at any age, if your child participates in sports, investing in a mouthguard to ensure their teeth are protected may be a good idea.
What can you do as a parent during all these stages?
Navigating your child’s health can be a minefield, especially with their dental development, as so many things can happen to your child’s teeth. However, prevention is key, and so long as parents regularly work with their dentist, children can expect to maintain their beautiful smiles from their baby teeth in childhood, to their adult teeth in adolescence.
Have you ever heard about therapy dogs at the dentist? It sounds crazy, right? But it’s actually true, as parents may no longer need to worry about taking their anxious child to the dentist.
Therapy dogs are proving to be the perfect companions to keep children calm during dental visits. Yes! Many pediatric dental clinics have embraced therapy dogs and have seen fantastic results.
From the initial greeting and onboarding process to the procedure itself and the final farewell, therapy dogs help create a positive experience, ensuring both parent and child leave the clinic feeling at ease.
In this article, you can read more about:
Why and how are therapy dogs being accepted into pediatric dental clinics?
What are the benefits for parents?
How can children feel better from having therapy dogs in the dental clinic?
How are therapy dogs entering pediatric dental clinics?
Children often experience such an intense fear around their dental procedures that attending an appointment becomes overwhelming. Dental anxiety is a global issue (don’t try to tell us you’ve never felt it), creating a significant barrier to successful treatment and negatively impacting long-term oral and overall health.
With the increasing prevalence of digital distractions among young people, who spend more and more time on screens, keeping a child still in the dentist’s chair has become even more challenging. In contrast, therapy dogs offer a modern, effective solution to ease patient anxiety and create a more comfortable environment for successful dental treatment.
What do studies say about therapy dogs?
According to different studies, animal-assisted therapy is a great and effective method for reducing children’s fear of dental visits. One study suggests that between 5 and 20 percent of children experience dental anxiety. Therapy dogs may be the key to alleviating this stress.
In another study, 102 children between 5 and 10 years were observed during a routine dental check-up, and participants were divided into two groups. Group A had a therapy dog present, while Group B did not. Researchers monitored pulse rates and anxiety levels, finding that children in the therapy dog group exhibited significantly lower stress and greater cooperation during their appointments. So now you know it: therapy dogs are really helping during dental visits!
How do dogs help parents?
Every parent wants the best for their child, especially regarding their health and well-being. We know that it is inevitable that children will encounter discomfort or pain at some point in their lives. Anyhow, we never like it when our kids suffer.
Parents must balance their instinct to protect their child with the reality that some situations, such as dental visits, can be stressful but necessary. This is why therapy dogs may be an effective assistant to calm the nerves from the parent and their child – and many times, the dentist – during the dental procedure.
Are therapy dogs beneficial for parents, too?
The dental clinic, with its loud tools and confined spaces, can be an intimidating environment for children. If a parent is anxious, their child is likely to pick up on those emotions, further escalating the tension within the dental room.
This is why worrying about a child’s well-being can be overwhelming. Parents must use all types of tools to ensure a smoother, more positive experience while their children undergo procedures.
Seeing their child benefit from the presence of a therapy dog can help the parent ease their own nerves and, as a result, continue to keep the child calm during the procedure. Therapy dogs provide much-needed comfort for both children and their parents.
Therapy dogs in pediatric dental clinics are a valuable resource in alleviating anxiety for both children and their parents, thus improving the quality of dental care. The benefits keep growing for dentists, parents, and kids.
What exactly happens for kids?
Regular dental visits are necessary for maintaining a child’s oral and overall health. Nevertheless, both parents and dentists have a bigger challenge when fear and anxiety make the experience distressing. A few examples of dental anxiety in children include the following:
Fidgeting
Sweating
Shaking
Crying
Inability to cooperate
Even if a child is told there is nothing to fear, their body may still react to stress responses. This can often be interpreted as the child being ‘naughty’ or ill-mannered, but these behaviors are often a representation of their response to fear.
When a child experiences heightened anxiety, their body releases excess cortisol—the stress hormone—making it difficult for them to self-soothe or self-regulate.
How do children benefit from the dogs in the dental clinic?
Studies have shown that interacting with dogs triggers the release of positive chemicals. For example, serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine. These “feel-good” chemicals help promote relaxation, thus making it easier for dental professionals to carry out their procedures effectively.
Imagine the sounds of scraping, drilling, and other dental tools (nobody likes that!). Children might feel out of control while sitting in the dental chair.
Now imagine having a dog by your side while all of this is happening to you. Therapy dogs provide a healthy distraction, offering comfort through petting, snuggling, or simply having a reassuring presence nearby.
Interacting with a therapy dog can help with a child’s confidence and sense of security, helping them remain calm throughout their visit, and proving that they can be the perfect four-legged companion to a child visiting the dental clinic. Don’t you wish this was made for adults, too?
Extra considerations when using therapy dogs
For therapy dogs to be effective in dental clinics, proper training is essential. The clinic must also be spacious enough to accommodate the presence of a therapy dog safely.
In smaller clinics, the risk of infection control issues, tripping hazards, or distractions during procedures must be carefully managed.
Therapy dogs should be well-disciplined, ensuring they remain calm despite the various noises and movements occurring in a dental setting. Likewise, children should be educated on how to interact with therapy dogs appropriately, making sure not to pet them too hard or to crowd the dog, ensuring a respectful and safe experience for all.
Therapy dogs have the potential to positively transform dental visits for children and parents, reducing fear and anxiety while fostering a more positive association with oral healthcare. Let’s not forget how these dogs can also help all dental professionals. With their calming presence, therapy dogs can help ensure that everyone leaves the dental clinic with literal smiles on their faces.
When should I take my child for a first orthodontic evaluation? Surely, you have wondered what the experts recommend in this regard.
There are many reasons for early evaluation, for example:
Preventive care
Guided growth for teeth, jaw, and palate
Early detection of orthodontic problems
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation at seven years old. But why at the age of seven? When is it necessary to take children before? What to expect on the first visit? What types of orthodontic treatments are available for children? If you are looking for answers, this article is for you. Continue reading and stay informed.
Why would my kid need to go to a pediatric orthodontist?
Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry focused on the treatment and prevention of irregularities of the teeth and jaws. In children, orthodontists seek to improve dentition to align the teeth and improve eating while at the same time improving aesthetics. Orthodontics may also help with breathing or pronunciation.
As mentioned earlier, orthodontists recommend that children have a first orthodontic evaluation at age seven. Although there are many reasons to go early for an orthodontist visit, this age is precisely when permanent teeth begin to erupt. Orthodontists can detect problems early at this age.
Benefits of going early
Some reasons to have an early evaluation include the following:
To assess dental development: Typically, children at age seven have a mixture of permanent and baby teeth. Because of this, an orthodontist can evaluate if there are problems with erupting teeth, jaw alignment, or space for the new teeth to erupt.
To guide the kid’s jaw growth: Starting early with guides at this age can influence how the jaw grows to fit all the teeth. Because this is a developmental age, it may be only during childhood and adolescence that these bones can be modified, and thus, surgery can be avoided later in life.
To identify potentially damaging oral habits: Habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting can hinder proper tooth growth. Early visits to an orthodontist can help correct these behaviors early.
To prevent possible complications: Orthodontists mitigate and eliminate respiratory, speech, and other problems with early detection.
The orthodontist earlier than age seven
In some cases, children may need an orthodontist before age seven. Parents should be aware of signs or issues that may appear early and could affect the function of their child’s teeth in the future.
Potential early issues that might appear
Let’s discuss some of the early issues that may indicate a problem that needs orthodontic correction:
Bad habits such as thumb sucking, which can cause misalignment of the teeth.
Jaw problems, such as crossbites, underbites, or overbites that occur when the upper teeth do not fit the lower teeth as they should.
Problems chewing, or difficulty eating food normally.
Specific respiratory problems such as mouth breathing and even snoring.
Speech problems and impediments in pronouncing some sounds.
Visibly misaligned teeth.
Of course, these issues do not always indicate orthodontic problems, but it is always good to rule them out with a specialist. For example, respiratory problems could be signs of other complications, which are different from orthodontic issues.
What to expect on the first orthodontic evaluation?
Generally, on a first visit, you can expect the orthodontist to:
Ask you for your child’s detailed dental history.
Perform a complete orthodontic examination, which may include x-rays.
Make a diagnosis and explain your options.
Make a personalized plan for your child.
It is crucial to explain and prepare your child for the visit. It is important to see it in a positive light to have a better experience. Additionally, you can plan a fun activity for your child at the end of the visit to make it enjoyable. Remember to congratulate your child for everything that went well during the visit.
Can my regular dentist make an orthodontic evaluation?
Yes, a regular dentist can perform an initial evaluation for your child. However, if your dentist detects any potential issues, experts recommend that you also visit an orthodontist.
Dentists can do basic screenings and X-rays to detect common general problems.
A specialist should perform a comprehensive evaluation with advanced imaging and bite analysis to develop a specialized, tailored treatment plan for your child.
What kinds of orthodontic treatments are available for children?
Orthodontic treatments for children vary widely depending on the need. There are common treatments for children, such as:
Braces: Braces can be metal or ceramic. Kids use them to accommodate teeth in overcrowding or misalignments of the bite.
Invisalign: These aligners, usually made of plastic, are widely used for mild crowding or spacing issues.
Retainers: Retainers are custom-made aligners used after removing braces to keep teeth in the correct position.
Headgear: These devices are external and help accommodate the jaw.
Palate expanders: These devices open and expand the palate to improve crossbite or crowding problems.
More specialized treatments include space maintainers and bionators. All of these treatments may cause discomfort in children.
Additionally, some of these gears are not very attractive. However, when a family makes a choice, it is essential to stick to it to correct the problem.
Aesthetic vs. functional considerations
While it is true that our children may need orthodontic treatments to improve certain health conditions, we may also opt for dental alignment treatments for aesthetic reasons. There are several reasons to consider an aesthetic orthodontic treatment as necessary.
The orthodontic issue is not only aesthetic for the sake of looking good; it also helps children boost their confidence. Childhood is a crucial moment in developing self-esteem. Having crooked teeth or protruding jaws can have consequences for future self-esteem.
One important thing to remember about orthodontic treatments is that they benefit our children. Their importance lies in their overall well-being. Whether to prevent future damage or to improve their self-esteem, the bottom line is that childhood and adolescence are the best age for orthodontic treatments.
These orthodontic decisions should be made during bone development since correcting them will be more difficult when children become adults.
Is fluoride safe? Recently, many people have wondered how necessary and safe fluoride is. Additionally, a new and sometimes unheard option is hydroxyapatite.
Read this FAQ to learn all about fluoride and hydroxyapatite and which is the best and safest choice for you and your children.
What is fluoride?
Fluoride is a mineral widely used in dental care because it improves and strengthens tooth enamel and prevents cavities. However, it’s use has been debated in recent years over the safety and necessity of putting fluoride in the water. In this first section, we will answer your most frequently asked questions about fluoride.
Why would a kid need fluoride?
Fluoride integrates into the molecular structure of tooth enamel, making it more resistant to bacteria and sugars that cause cavities in children. It is used pediatrically for remineralization of teeth and cavity prevention.
Because of its low cost, it is a widely available mineral: it is generally found in toothpaste, dentists’ treatments, and even water, and it is present in almost every state in the United States.
Is our water mixed with fluoride?
In the United States, water is usually mixed with a supplemental amount of fluoride. The exception is in Utah, where new legislation will take effect on May 7, 2025, to ban the addition of fluoride to public drinking water. Although communities will be prohibited from adding fluoride to water, individuals will still be allowed to get prescriptions for fluoride supplementation.
Although water fluoridation is considered a public health measure to prevent cavities, North Dakota and Tennessee are joining the debate on mandatory fluoridation and considering banning fluoride in water. This debate stems from studies indicating that high amounts of fluoride can cause some problems, such as dental fluorosis.
What is dental fluorosis?
Excessive fluoridation has potential associated risks. One of these risks is dental fluorosis (also known as mottled enamel), which is especially worrisome in children, as they are forming the enamel, a protective layer of the tooth. Dental fluorosis usually presents with brown stains on the teeth in the most severe cases. Since most commercial toothpastes have fluoride added, to avoid dental fluorosis, you should:
Recommend children to never swallow toothpaste.
Start using fluoride toothpaste once your kid turns three.
Use only a small amount of toothpaste (usually pea-sized).
Consult with your dentist whether fluoridation as a supplement is necessary for each individual case.
If the damage from dental fluorosis is too great, cosmetic and whitening treatments can be used on teeth. Additionally, once your kid turns eight years old, the risk of developing dental fluorosis diminishes, as the enamel of permanent teeth is already formed.
How about breastfeeding and giving formula with fluoride water?
Another frequently asked question when fluoridating water is whether it is safe to mix formula with water when babies are still young. Although using fluoridated water to prepare formula may increase the risk of dental fluorosis, most cases are mild.
It is not necessary to supplement fluoride for infants who are breastfeeding or taking infant formula.
If you prefer not to use fluoride before your baby’s first tooth erupts, you can prepare the formula using fluoride-free water.
Could Fluoride be linked to my kid’s IQ?
Some studies (including U.S. government studies) have described the possibility that too high a level of fluoride may be linked to lower IQ scores in children. However, the levels in these studies are higher than the levels added in the US.
A recent analysis published in JAMA Pediatrics raised questions about whether it is safe to fluoridate water, especially for pregnant women and young babies, as children’s IQ may be affected. However, to reach meaningful conclusions, we need more studies on the topic.
What are some pros and cons of fluoride?
Some fluoride pros include:
It prevents tooth decay
It improves the enamel
It saves costs
Some fluoride cons include the following points:
The possibility of dental fluorosis
The possibility of overexposure
Supervision needed from the parents
What is hydroxyapatite?
Another mineral that is naturally occurring is hydroxyapatite. In recent years, it has emerged as a safe alternative to fluoride. Hydroxyapatite has the following applications useful for pediatric dental procedures:
Remineralizes teeth
Prevents cavities
Non-toxic
Reduces pain in children with hypomineralization
For pediatric patients, hydroxyapatite offers an effective solution as an alternative to fluoride.
What is hydroxyapatite toothpaste?
Hydroxyapatite toothpaste is a product specifically designed to be fluoride-free and to improve the mineral composition of the tooth, improving the enamel. Let’s analyze some key points of hydroxyapatite:
Remineralization: Hydroxyapatite particles fill the spaces in the enamel and restore its protective layer.
Reduction of sensitivity: This mineral also occludes the dental tubules, decreasing hypersensitivity and pain in the teeth.
Reduction of bacterial adhesion: Studies show that cavities are less likely to develop when using hydroxyapatite toothpaste.
Some individuals may have allergies to other products added to hydroxyapatite toothpaste, such as additives like xylitol or glycerin.
Can we use hydroxyapatite in preventive dental care?
Yes, Hydroxyapatite (HAp) is recognized as a safe replacement for fluorine. It can help in some specific aspects, such as:
Prevent tooth decay
Remineralize teeth
Prevent gingivitis or gum disease
Protect against tooth erosion
Hydroxyapatite is a fluoride-free alternative for the prevention of dental problems. Although it is more expensive than fluoride, many odontologists prefer it.
Is hydroxyapatite safe for children?
One of the greatest advantages of hydroxyapatite is the low risk it poses to children, unlike fluoride.
Hydroxyapatite can be ingested, and clinical research so far labels it as safe for children of all ages.
What are some of the cons of hydroxyapatite?
Even though hydroxyapatite has numerous advantages, there are some limitations for pediatric use. Compared to fluorine-containing products, some hydroxyapatite cons include the following:
Higher cost: The cost of hydroxyapatite compared to fluoride is significantly higher.
Fewer studies: There are decades of studies on fluorine, while hydroxyapatite is relatively new.
More difficult to obtain: Obtaining hydroxyapatite can be more difficult, so not many parents will opt for this option.
Which should I choose for my kid? Fluoride or Hydroxyapatite?
In the end, it is up to each parent to decide whether to use fluoride toothpaste or hydroxyapatite toothpaste. Now that you know the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision.
Dental problems usually begin in childhood. Not having created good hygiene habits, growing up with adults who do not take care of their teeth, or seeing tooth decay as something normal causes, in our children, the false certainty that dental problems are not something to worry about.
Of course, children’s dental problems do not necessarily end with cavities. Interestingly, good hygiene and habit formation from early childhood can prevent most of these problems.
In this article, find out the most common dental problems children suffer, as well as how to prevent them and treat them.
7 most common dental issues in children
There are many common dental issues in children. Here we tell you about the seven most common ones:
1. Dental cavities
The number one and most prevalent problem in children is tooth decay, also called cavities. Cavities are damaged areas in the teeth caused by the breakdown of the enamel and hard tissue of the tooth. Cavities happen when the mouth is exposed to acids produced by bacteria. These bacteria feed mainly on sugars and simple carbohydrates.
You can prevent cavities and the breakdown of children’s teeth. Three excellent ways to prevent tooth decay are the following:
Improve dental hygiene: Creating habits of brushing teeth after main meals and supervising the correct brushing of teeth in your children improves their dental hygiene.
Improve diet: Avoid giving kids too many sweets or highly processed foods. You can also help by adding foods with high nutritional value to their diet.
Consult with your dentist regularly: Discovering cavities at an early stage is useful to avoid them becoming bigger.
Preventing cavities in children prevents them from having more serious problems. Some of the issues we avoid include pain, tooth loss, and painful visits to the dentist. Generally, going to the dentist for a cleaning or checkup is better than going to the dentist to cure large, painful cavities.
If your children have cavities, it is crucial to cure them to prevent them from growing and causing more damage.
2. Gum disease
Did you know not only adults could have gum disease? Gingivitis in children is quite common. It is characterized as a disease of the gums. In this disease, the plaque accumulates between the gum and the tooth, thus irritating the gum.
To discover if your child has gingivitis, you can observe if their gums have any of these signs:
Constant pain in the gums (or sensitivity to temperatures when eating).
Inflammation or swelling of the gums.
Bleeding of the gums, especially when flossing or brushing teeth.
Gingivitis is the precursor to gum disease. In most cases, it is prevented by proper tooth and gum hygiene, including proper flossing. If this disease is not treated, children’s teeth may fall out, become weaker, or cause bone loss. You can prevent the disease through dietary changes and improved brushing techniques.
Gum disease is a treatable disease. As a parent, you can look for the help of a good dentist or periodontist.
3. Orthodontic problems
Orthodontic problems are a “growing trend” in children. Also called malocclusions, orthodontic problems can cause some aesthetic problems or even functional problems, such as:
Overbite: Overbite means that the front teeth protrude more than the back teeth.
Underbite: The lower teeth protrude from the upper teeth in an underbite. This could be caused by genetics or because of prolonged thumb-sucking.
Open bite: When the mouth is closed, it is normal for all teeth to touch to facilitate chewing. In an open bite, teeth don’t touch.
Spacing problems: Sometimes, there is too little or too much space between the teeth, causing problems with chewing or with the aesthetics and self-esteem of children.
Crowding: Crowding happens when there is no space for the teeth, causing them to grow too close together and become crooked.
It is crucial to detect these problems early in order to correct them. Your orthodontist will determine if you need braces, expanders, headgear, or even jaw surgery—in severe cases. Unfortunately, orthodontics is not only an aesthetic problem but can also cause other problems in the long run, such as cracked teeth, difficulty brushing teeth, or jaw problems.
We recommend that you and your kid visit an orthodontist around the age of seven or eight when many permanent teeth have erupted.
4. Traumas
Another common problem in children is dental trauma. Dental trauma refers to injuries that affect the teeth, gums, jawbone, or mouth. Injuries can lead to chipped or knocked-out teeth. A variety of reasons can cause them:
Accidents
Falls
Sport injuries
Biting on hard objects
Whatever the case, if the injury is severe, the child requires immediate dental attention. To prevent some of these problems, children can wear mouthguards when playing some sports.
5. Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity may be caused by some of the other problems mentioned above. It refers to the discomfort and pain that children feel when drinking hot or cold foods and beverages. Even air currents entering the mouth can cause pain.
Some of the problems that can cause children’s teeth to feel sensitive include the following:
Cavities
New permanent teeth
Bruxism or teeth-grinding
Orthodontic treatment
Gum disease
A cracked or missing filling
It is important to detect and treat the cause with a pediatric dental specialist. If your child complains of tooth pain or sensitivity, the best thing to do is to take them to the dentist for a check-up.
6. Grinding
Grinding or bruxism is a habit that causes children to clench or grind their teeth. It is quite common in infants and toddlers, but children stop when their teeth develop.
If your child continues to grind his teeth after toddlerhood, there is a high risk that it will wear down the enamel on its teeth. This can lead to cavities and other dental problems. Your dental professional will determine whether mouthguards are necessary to prevent tooth wear. However, it is important to consult a team of professionals to understand and stop the cause of tooth grinding.
7. Thumb sucking
Children often use thumb sucking as a self-soothing mechanism. By doing so for prolonged periods, they can damage their teeth. This problem can usually lead to several issues, such as an open bite, meaning the upper and lower teeth do not touch.
Thumb sucking can also cause problems with proper chewing and even affect speech. If your child is still sucking its thumb after 3-4 years of age, it is best to look for ways to prevent it with the help of your pediatrician, dental professional, and other healthcare professionals.
Prevention is key: early habits for lifelong health
The bottom line is that by brushing your child’s teeth, staying informed about common problems, and regular visits to the dentist, you can prevent or correct most dental problems early.
Remember that it is up to you to create good habits in the children around you from a young age. Your care will be their care.
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