Oral hygiene practice is an essential part of a growing child in any household. The first teeth are developed long before the baby is born. The set of teeth will finally start to make its debut at the age of six months or so. The full set might take time to emerge, up to the age of three. Finally, the whole set of baby teeth will be replaced with permanent teeth by the age of thirteen.
Children are likely to develop dental conditions which might require a hasty visit to the office of the orthodontist. Any dental issue might cause serious harm–both in the short term and the long term–and needs to be addressed at the fastest possible time.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is the most common problem for children in particular. A decayed tooth results in a cavity, which can cause pain. If untreated, a cavity can become highly-infected, causing fever as well.
Children are mostly seen at a dentist’s office to treat tooth decay. A lot of children love eating sugary food and drinking soda and fruit juice. Sometimes, their choice of breakfast, lunch and dinner all consists of snack items like cake, ice cream, peanut butter, candy, chocolate, potato chips and crackers, which are all high in oil, sugar and carbohydrates.
The customary pre-bedtime brushing does not cut it for children. The popular items mentioned above can be consumed frequently by children during the day, which outpaces the frequency of tooth brushing.
Tooth exposure to starch, sugar and other acids for long periods of time causes destruction of the enamel. This enamel protects and covers our teeth. Brushing teeth within 20 minutes of food consumption can prevent tooth decay to a great extent. Tooth decay leads to caries, which can ultimately lead to nerve infection, not to mention intolerable pain.
Sensitive Teeth
It is possible for your child to have sensitive teeth, which results in sharp discomfort while eating or drinking hot or cold items. Sensitivity can be caused by cavities, the emergence of new teeth, or a crack or break in a tooth after an accident. This can also happen if your child is suffering from sinus infections, or brushing his teeth wrong.
Children with braces tend to brush lower along the gum line, and mostly miss the important gap between teeth. This can wear down the tooth enamel over time, resulting in cracks, cavities and finally sensitive teeth.
Our teeth react when they come in contact with foods of varying temperatures. Teeth expand and contract in reaction to changes in temperature. Thus, it is definitely painful to drink a cold milkshake and eat hot pizza with sensitive teeth.
Gum Disease
Bleeding gums can become a reality for those who prefer not to brush as often as they snack. Plaque starts to accumulate inside the mouth very easily, and the invisible layer of germs starts affecting both the gums and the teeth. If your child has tender gums, along with redness or puffiness, it is best to consult an orthodontist immediately, in order to prevent gingivitis.
