Keeping your child’s mouth healthy is of the utmost importance. With that in mind, it’s crucial to keep your eyes open for oral issues that could potentially affect your child’s oral and overall health. Whether you’re a new parent or a seasoned veteran, here’s what you need to be on the lookout for.
Decaying or Missing Baby Teeth
Any kids dentist will tell you those baby teeth serve as a sort of map for permanent teeth. If there’s a baby tooth missing or one that is decaying, it could pose some serious issues for further oral development. Some signs of issues like these may include difficulty chewing or premature tooth loss. If you suspect that your child is suffering from baby teeth issues like these, it’s essential to get them to a pediatric dental exam immediately.
Tongue Thrusting
Tongue thrusting is a condition in which a child presses their tongue to their lips with such force and frequency that it can actually cause teeth to protrude. One of the best ways to deal with this condition, if it’s caught in the early stages, is to have your child visit a speech pathologist to work on correcting swallow and chewing patterns. But if your child’s teeth have been altered, pediatric orthodontics services are an essential option to consider.
Poor Nutrition
It goes without saying that poor nutrition can lead to oral health issues, especially in children. When they’re fed sugary snacks and drinks, it can lead to accelerated tooth decay and a host of other oral issues. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, almost 42% of children aged two to 11 have had cavities in their primary teeth. While this could be a result of other factors, nutrition undoubtedly plays a role. Instead of offering sugary snacks, follow your dental pediatrician’s advice and stick to veggies and fruit.
Whether you’re concerned about your child’s pediatric dental care or you’re just preparing in the event that an emergency kid's dentist appointment will be necessary, these are excellent things to keep in mind. Don’t let your child’s oral health slip through the cracks!