ANN/THE STAR – A child’s smile is a precious feature that reflects their happiness and well-being.
As parents, safeguarding that smile involves more than just regular toothbrushing.
Understanding the prevalent dental issues that affect children, including tooth decay and gingivitis, being aware of how to prevent and treat these problems, is essential for maintaining your child’s dental health.
Common dental issues
Tooth decay, also known as dental caries or cavities, happens when oral bacteria produce acids that erode the enamel due to prolonged exposure to excessive sugary foods and drinks.
Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, involves inflammation and bleeding of the gums caused by plaque build-up.
Both conditions are primarily caused by poor oral hygiene.
If tooth decay and gingivitis are not addressed promptly, they can result in serious problems. Left untreated, decayed teeth can cause discomfort and make it difficult to chew and eat.
Untreated tooth decay can also lead to infections, abscesses and tooth extraction.
Gingivitis, if ignored, can progress to periodontitis, a more severe type of gum disease that may harm the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth, potentially resulting in tooth loss.
Treatment and prevention
Dental visits are daunting for many children, especially those with anxiety. A painful or bad experience in the past may cause them to be nervous.
Parents play a crucial role in shaping their child’s attitude towards dental visits.
Children often pick up on how adults feel, so staying calm and talking positively about going to the dentist can help create a reassuring environment.
For parents looking for special dental care for their children, paediatric dentists are an excellent choice.
These experts focus on treating kids and ensuring they receive appropriate treatment, both physically and emotionally.
Paediatric dentists understand the unique challenges and fears that children might have and create a comforting and kid-friendly environment for their young patients.
For more anxious patients, options such as sedation and general anaesthesia can make treatments more comfortable and stress-free.
These methods ensure that necessary dental care is administered without causing undue distress to the child.
Prevention, however, is the best strategy for maintaining your child’s oral health.
Here are some important tips for inculcating good oral habits:
Establish a routine
Parents should brush their child’s teeth as soon as they erupt, using only a smear of fluoridated toothpaste. Once your child turns three, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Teach your child to brush their teeth twice daily for at least two minutes, ensuring that all surfaces are cleaned. Encourage them to spit out the toothpaste after brushing, rather than rinsing with water, to keep the fluoride’s effectiveness on their teeth.
Fluoride use
Ensure your child uses toothpaste containing at least 1,000 ppm (parts per million) fluoride, as the correct fluoride concentration strengthens enamel and helps prevent decay.
Healthy diet
Limit the amount and frequency of high sugary snacks and drinks. Encourage a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and dairy products that provide essential nutrients for healthy teeth and gums.
Regular dental visits
Schedule your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday to familiarise them with the dental environment and make them comfortable. Make sure to schedule dental check-ups every six months.
Regular visits allow the dentist to monitor your child’s oral health, perform professional cleaning and detect problems early.
Promoting healthy dental practices from a young age can help guarantee that your child’s teeth stay strong and well, enabling them to smile confidently for a lifetime.
Early intervention and consistent preventive care are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums throughout their life.
For tailored advice and care, always consult with your dentist to address your child’s specific dental needs.
