There’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing our young babies experience each stage of their childhood and grow into the unique individuals they are meant to be. However, as parents and caregivers, we only want the best for our children, be it their oral and overall health or mental well-being. This is where proactive care for your children’s dental health can contribute to their wellness. From the very first tooth to adolescence, middle and teenage years, dental care plays a critical role in the developing teeth, gums, and jaws. If you’re beginning your parenthood journey, have a naughty young one, or just want to educate yourself about children’s dentistry, we’re here to help you get started – with all the basics of children’s oral care, milestones, and prevention strategies to ensure a childhood full of healthy smiles. Read on to learn more.

Why is Your Child’s Oral Health Important?

Children’s dental health is of utmost importance for several reasons, and its impact extends beyond just oral well-being. Firstly, early dental care sets the foundation for overall well-being and development. Healthy teeth and gums contribute to a child’s ability to eat comfortably, speak clearly, and maintain proper oral hygiene habits.

Promoting good oral health in children also has a positive impact on speech development. Properly aligned teeth and a healthy mouth make it easier for children to articulate words, which can have a long-term effect on their communication skills.

Nutrition is another vital aspect. Healthy teeth are essential for proper chewing, aiding in the digestion process and ensuring that children get the necessary nutrients from their food. Poor oral health can lead to difficulties in eating and potential nutritional deficiencies.

Moreover, a bright and healthy smile can boost a child’s self-esteem, positively influencing their social interactions and overall well-being.

Dental Milestones in Children

Dental milestones mark essential stages in the development of children’s teeth and oral health. Understanding these timelines is vital for parents to establish good oral care habits early. 

Here’s what parents and caregivers should look for:

• Teething usually commences around 6 months. Teething can be a cause of great distress, but actually also a great chance to set really good habits by teaching you how to soothe teething! We can show you easy ways to convert potentially traumatic times into fun bonding times!
• The appearance of the bottom two middle teeth, primary incisors, is an early milestone.
• By the age of 3, most children boast a complete set of 20 primary teeth. Initiating oral care early is essential
• Around age 6, the first permanent molars emerge behind the last primary molars. These teeth are often the most prone to decay as they are often thought of as “baby” teeth or missed entirely and are difficult for most kids to clean. We can show you really easy ways of protecting these teeth.
• Between ages 6 and 7, children start losing their front baby teeth, and permanent incisors replace them.
• By age 12, most children have a mix of permanent and baby teeth.
• Permanent dentition typically completes around the age of 12-14 when the last set of molars, the second molars, emerge.

These milestones can vary from child to child, and you need to monitor your child’s dental development and consult a dentist for guidance.

What are the Common Dental Problems in Children?

Early dental intervention allows children’s dentists to set the direction of straighter and healthier teeth, preventing the need for extensive treatments in the future.

Some common dental problems in children include:

Cavities (Tooth Decay)

Tooth decay, or dental caries, is a prevalent dental problem in children characterised by the demineralisation of tooth enamel, leading to cavities. This process is often initiated by the accumulation of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—on the tooth surfaces. Children love their sweets, and unfortunately, so do bacteria in the mouth. When sugars from food and drinks interact with these bacteria, they produce acids that disolve the enamel. As enamel breaks down, cavities form, compromising the structural integrity of the tooth. If left untreated, tooth decay can progress, causing pain, infection, and potential damage to the permanent teeth beneath.

Gum Disease

Gingivitis in children is an inflammatory condition affecting the gums, primarily caused by the accumulation of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—along the gumline. Poor oral hygiene practices, such as irregular brushing and flossing, contribute to plaque buildup, leading to redness, swelling, and tenderness of the gums. The bacteria in plaque release toxins that irritate the gum tissues, triggering an immune response and causing inflammation. If left unaddressed, gingivitis can progress to more severe forms of gum disease.

Dental Trauma

Dental trauma in children refers to injuries or damage to the teeth and surrounding tissues resulting from accidents or external forces. Common causes include falls, sports-related injuries, or accidents during play. Dental trauma can manifest in various ways, such as chipped, cracked, or completely knocked-out teeth. The impact can extend beyond immediate pain and aesthetic concerns, potentially affecting the development of permanent teeth. Swift and appropriate intervention is necessary when dental trauma occurs. If a child’s adult tooth falls out, parents should gently rinse it with water (do not scrub!), avoid touching the root, and place it back in the socket if possible. If not, store the tooth in milk or the child’s saliva (by placing the tooth under their tongue) and seek immediate dental care for the best chance of saving the tooth.

Early Tooth Loss

Early tooth loss in children refers to premature shedding or losing baby teeth before their natural counterparts are ready to emerge. This can occur due to various reasons, such as dental decay, trauma, or developmental issues. The premature loss of primary teeth can disrupt the normal alignment and spacing of permanent teeth, potentially leading to orthodontic problems in the future. It is important for parents to address the underlying causes, seek timely dental intervention, and consider space-maintaining devices if necessary, ensuring the proper development of the child’s oral structures and the alignment of permanent teeth. Adult teeth can easily drift or tilt over the space left by lost baby teeth causing significant lost space issues.

Malocclusion

Malocclusion in children refers to the misalignment of the teeth or jaws, disrupting the normal bite pattern. This dental issue can manifest as overcrowded, crooked, or protruding teeth, impacting aesthetics and functionality. Prolonged pacifier use and thumb sucking in children can put pressure on developing dental structures, leading to teeth misalignment. Other causes include genetic factors, premature tooth loss, or jaw irregularities. Early identification and intervention, often with orthodontic treatments like braces, can help correct malocclusion, promoting proper jaw development and preventing potential dental issues in adulthood.

Preventive Measures For Good Oral Health in Children

The following measures contribute to establishing a strong foundation for good oral health in children.

• Even before teeth emerge, gently clean gums with a soft cloth or rub with your finger; massaging with your finger is often remarkably enjoyable for infants!
• As teeth start to appear, introducing a small soft-bristled toothbrush is recommended. Never scrub; think of it as a very gentle massage.
• Manage teething discomfort in toddlers with gentle gum massages, chilled teething toys (not frozen), and teething rings for chewing.
• Schedule the first dental visit around the first birthday or with the eruption of the first tooth.
•  Avoid prolonged pacifier use, as it may impact tooth alignment.
•  Don’t put your child to bed with a bottle (except plain water), as it can lead to tooth decay.
• Ensure your children brush their teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste.
• Emphasise proper toothpaste usage, with a rice-sized amount for children under 3 and a pea-sized amount for those aged 3-6.
• Teach them the correct brushing technique, emphasising all tooth surfaces and the tongue.
• Monitor brushing until they can do it effectively on their own, usually around the age of 7 or 8. Even then, adult supervision is recommended.
• Schedule regular visits to the dentist for checkups and cleanings.
• Encourage a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-sugar snacks to support oral health.
• Ensure they drink plenty of water, which helps maintain saliva flow and rinse away bacteria.
• Provide mouthguards during sports to prevent dental injuries.
• Demonstrate good oral habits through your oral care routine.

Children’s Dentistry at Heathcote Dental Surgery

At Heathcote Dental Surgery, we believe that good oral habits instilled at a young age set the foundation for a healthy smile. Furthermore, fostering positive dental experiences early promotes education and awareness, which leads to a lifetime of proactive care. Our gentle dentists love working with children, helping them learn and explore their oral health to understand its importance from the time they start developing their baby teeth to the age when they start growing into mature, responsible adults. We offer a range of children’s dental services focused on prevention, maintenance and treatment to protect your children’s teeth and monitor development for a smile as adorable as theirs. With a warm environment designed for comfort to set their young hearts at ease and personalised treatments suited to their unique needs, we’re your local dentists who are here for you at every stage of your child’s dental journey. Schedule a consultation today.