In addition to checkups with their pediatrician, you should also schedule regular dentist appointments for your youngster. Starting a dental care regimen early in life ensures teeth and gums develop correctly, preventing pain and problems with speech, breathing, and eating later. During routine checkups, a dentist will also catch and correct the following common problems before they impact your child’s overall health and quality of life.

3 Common Dental Problems Kids Face

1. Teeth Misalignment

If your child is prone to sucking their thumb, the pressure can alter the shape of the roof of the mouth. It can also force permanent teeth out of alignment, impacting your child’s speech and ability to eat. You should try to break them of the habit as soon as possible; otherwise, they could eventually need a retainer to correct an overbite or underbite.

2. Tooth Decay

From candy to fruit juices, kids often consume foods and beverages with a lot of sugar. The substance collects on teeth and wears away the enamel, leading to tooth decay. Cavities are so common that 40% of kids between the ages of two and five have at least one. That’s why regular trips to the dentist should be part of your child’s dental care routine. They will clean and fill the cavity before the corrosion becomes so severe that your child risks losing a tooth. 

3. Canker Sores

If your child bites the inside of their mouth or gets injured, they could develop a canker sore. The white spots typically form on the tongue or inside the lip or cheek. The painful sensation normally subsides after a week, and the sore goes away on its own within three weeks. If your child still complains of pain or the sore won’t heal, consult a dentist for help.

For teeth cleaning, cavity filling, and additional dental care solutions for kids, contact Lowitz & Meier in Cincinnati, OH. For over 30 years, the team has provided family dentistry services to ensure kids’ teeth and gums remain healthy during each stage of development. The professionals also share tips to put jitters aside. To schedule a dental care appointment, call (513) 521-8900. Visit the dentist office online to access new patient forms, and become a Facebook follower to read about patients’ positive experiences.