Signs Your Child's Teeth Are Having Issues

As a parent, you want to ensure your children live happy and healthy life. Part of doing so is to ensure they have healthy gums and teeth. It can be hard to know issues that need addressing, but read on for some useful tips.

Discolored Teeth

Discolored teeth can be a sign of decay, a bacterial infection that can eat away at the tooth enamel and make it appear yellow or brown. Tooth decay can eventually lead to cavities and tooth loss if left untreated. Discoloration can also result from poor dental hygiene or consuming staining foods and drinks.

Take your child to the dentist when you notice any discoloration in their teeth. The dentist can determine the cause of the discoloration and recommend the appropriate treatment. Treatment options may include dental fillings or tooth extraction if the damage is severe.

Bad Breath

Bad breath or halitosis in children can be traced to several dental issues. One of the most common is tooth decay. It can create a foul odor in the mouth. Gum disease can also cause bad breath due to plaque and bacteria buildup along the gumline.

Infection in the sinuses or throat is another cause of bad breath in children. Take your child to a dentist if they are experiencing bad breath. Doing so will help determine the cause and address any underlying issues.

Sensitive Teeth

Tooth sensitivity commonly affects children. It can be due to several factors. One is tooth decay. It can cause the tooth’s nerves to become exposed, leading to discomfort when eating or drinking hot or cold foods.

Receding gums can also cause tooth sensitivity. They can occur due to brushing too hard or gum disease, which exposes the tooth’s root. Other causes of tooth sensitivity are teeth grinding or some foods or drinks. Treatment options may entail desensitizing toothpaste or dental fillings. Fluoride treatments also help.

Gum Inflammation

Gum inflammation or gingivitis is a common dental problem in children. It results from poor dental hygiene or other factors. When plaque or bacteria build up along the gumline, the gums can become inflamed and bleed easily.

Gingivitis can advance to a more severe form of gum disease, periodontitis, if left untreated. It can cause tooth loss and other health problems. Gum inflammation treatment may include improved dental hygiene habits or professional cleanings. It can also entail surgery in severe cases.
 

Crowded Teeth

It occurs when there is no adequate space in your child’s mouth for all teeth to grow well. It can lead to crooked teeth, which can be hard to clean and may require orthodontic treatment. Have an orthodontist assess your child’s teeth if they appear crowded.

Grinding or Clenching

Grinding or clenching teeth, also called bruxism, can cause significant damage to your child’s teeth over time. Bruxism can result from anxiety or stress. It can lead to worn down or fractured teeth. Take your child to the dentist if they grind their teeth. The dentist will help address the issue and prevent further damage.
 

Delayed Tooth Development

Your child may have a dental problem if their teeth are not developing as expected. Delayed tooth development can result from several factors. These include genetics, hormonal imbalances, or nutritional deficiencies. It is vital to have them evaluated by a dentist to determine the cause and address any underlying issues if their teeth are not coming in on schedule.

For more about healthy teeth, visit Children’s Dental Health Center, P.C., at our office in Bozeman, Montana. Call (406) 586-8112 to book an appointment today.