A primary concern for most parents is keeping their children’s teeth strong and healthy. While it’s essential to teach good oral habits, such as brushing and flossing, at an early age, this isn’t enough to prevent all the pediatric dental complications that frequently arise. Fortunately, many of the problems pediatric dentists treat can be avoided if parents are educated on what to look for. Here are a few issues kids often encounter with their oral health.

What Are the Most Common Pediatric Dentistry Problems?

1. Tooth Decay 

Many types of bacteria live in the mouth and will cause tooth decay if given the opportunity. According to the National Children’s Oral Health Foundation, the leading chronic childhood illness in the U.S. is tooth decay. Children need to maintain a regular brushing and flossing schedule, limit the amount of sticky, sugary, and starchy foods they eat, and see their pediatric dentist for a cleaning every six months. 

2. Thumb Sucking 

For infants, thumb sucking can be a source of comfort, but the younger they break the habit, the better. A child’s permanent teeth typically start developing around age 5. If they’re still sucking their thumb at this point, it can push the new teeth out of alignment and result in an overbite. It could also cause problems with jaw alignment and their speech.

3. Teeth Grinding 

It’s common for children to go through a phase of teeth grinding that will stop as they get older. However, it’s still something to keep an eye out for, as constant grinding can chip teeth, wear away the tooth enamel, and cause oral pain. A dentist may recommend a nightguard if the grinding is bad enough to cause damage. 

4. Tongue Thrusting 

When a child thrusts their tongue, they’re pushing it forward between the upper and lower teeth when swallowing. Eventually, this can create a narrow facial structure, cause difficulty eating, and lead to speech issues. Pediatric dentists can identify tongue thrusting and will ensure proper treatment is followed to reverse its effects fully. 

To learn more about common dental problems in children and preventative measures your family can take, reach out to North Ft. Mitchell Dentistry. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff will provide you with all the support and resources you need to keep your child’s teeth in good condition. Offering more than 40 years of experience, Dr. John M. Schulte, DMD, is one of the most trusted pediatric dentists in Kenton County, KY, and is known for performing quality cleanings and exams. Call (859) 331-0763 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for additional information.