What are the top children’s dentistry treatments that dentists treat? Tooth decay, tooth sensitivity, dental emergencies, gingivitis, and gum disease are some of the main challenges facing the little mouths of our world. Children’s dentistry offers patients dedicated oral care for infants, children, adolescents and patients with special needs. Dr. Cat has been dedicated to children’s dentistry for the past nine years and knows how to help your child feel at home.
Early childhood tooth decay is a significant problem facing todays children and refers to when a preschool-age child (birth and 6 years) has one or more decayed, missing, or filled tooth surfaces in any primary tooth. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 42% of children 2 to 11 have had dental cavities in their primary (baby) teeth.
Part of the problem is that baby teeth are sometimes seen as disposable; they are going to fall out anyway so caring for them with dedication doesn’t seem as important. But, baby teeth serve a very important purpose. Baby teeth act as placeholders for permanent teeth. While baby teeth are in place, your child is able to develop correct speech patterns, chew food properly, and keep smiles straighter helping to reduce the need for orthodontics. Without baby teeth, all these benefits are reversed. A tooth-filled smile also provides your child with more confidence, paving the way for proper social and intellectual development from an early age.
Tooth decay is also harmful to overall health. When left to fester, cavities aren’t the only issue. Gingivitis and periodontal disease cause pain. And, the bacteria from these oral diseases can enter the bloodstream and lead to other issues in the body.
Tooth sensitivity can be painful and affect children in various ways. Having sensitive teeth often requires eliminating certain foods, mood changes, and irritability in children. But, understanding what leads to tooth sensitivity, and how to prevent and treat it, you can help your child avoid these symptoms.
Common triggers for tooth sensitivity include:
If your child is having symptoms of tooth sensitivity, schedule an examination with Li’l Sunshine Smiles to determine the cause of the sensitivity and stop it in its tracks. Ignoring symptoms could lead to significant problems for your child so don’t delay.
Dental emergencies are scary for parents and children. But, knowing what to do when they happen can help you remain level-headed and ready to act. All dental injuries, even a minor ones, need a follow-up exam by a dentist immediately. Sometimes, neighboring teeth are injured even though, visibly, you don’t see damage. Learn what to do by visiting our Dental Emergencies page on our website here. information. When dental emergencies occur, call our office so we can help guide you through the process.
The holidays are a great time to get ready for the new year with an end-of-the-year exam and cleaning. Involving your dentist in your child’s care this holiday will help you in your goal for healthy teeth this holiday (and after). Dr. Botero and her friendly staff at Li’l Sunshine Smiles are here to help guide you and your child to excellent oral wellness. A consultation with our team can help identify what your child needs to keep her oral health where it needs to be. Call us today at 813-576-0200 to make an appointment and to learn more tips for healthy teeth this holiday.