Helping your child develop a good oral health routine while they are young will go a long way toward maintaining their teeth and gums when they’re older. Unfortunately, young kids don’t always understand the importance of brushing and flossing every day, which can lead to dental problems. Here are a few of the most common issues pediatric dentists see on a regular basis, and how you can prevent them in your child.

3 Common Dental Problems Kids Develop

1. Tooth Decay

According to pediatric dentists, tooth decay is not only the most common dental issue for young children, but it is also the most common chronic disease for kids between the ages of 6 and 11. Teaching children how to brush and floss thoroughly will prevent this problem. Because sugary drinks and foods also contribute to these dental problems, you should limit these items in their diet. You can also talk to your child’s dentist about applying a sealant over their teeth to help ward off cavities.

2. Gum Disease

Also known as gingivitis, gum disease is most often attributed to poor oral health; however, sometimes genetics can play a role. A child with gum disease will most likely have red and bleeding gums, bad breath, and a foul taste in the back of the mouth. If this problem is not quickly corrected, it could develop into periodontitis, which could lead to tooth loss. Taking your child to visit their dentist regularly will help to prevent either of these issues from occurring. 

3. Teeth Grinding

About 3 out of every 10 kids are prone to grinding their teeth or clenching their jaws. This condition, known as bruxism, often occurs while the child is sleeping or when they are under stress. While most do outgrow this problem, they could develop headaches and earaches in the meantime in addition to tooth and other facial problems like worn enamel, chipped teeth, and temporomandibular joint disease (TMJ). Pediatric dentists recommend scheduling a checkup to look for alignment problems that might be causing the issue and to come up with a suitable treatment plan.

One of the essential ways you can help your child maintain good oral health is by scheduling regular visits to their pediatric dentist. At Pediatric Dentistry Kahala in Honolulu, HI, Dr. Allen K. Hirai, DDS, and his staff strive to provide a stress-free environment for all of their young patients and teach them how to take good care of their teeth. To give your kid the pediatric dental care they need, schedule an appointment today by calling (808) 737-0076. For more information about this team’s services, visit their website. You can follow them on Facebook for more tips.