Table of Contents1. Introduction |
Tooth decay is considered one of the most common chronic disease affecting children even though it is entirely preventable. Good oral hygiene habits can help children from getting cavities and in addition, dental sealants and fluoridated water are good ways to prevent tooth decay. Reports indicate that American students miss around 51 million hours of school as a result of oral health problems. This is a concern as students also miss the critical learning times at school, particularly in early grades. And, those with recent oral health problems are four times more likely to have lower grade when compared to their counterparts who have not. Therefore, developing good habits at an early age is a good start for healthy teeth and gums.
Therefore, The National Children’s dental health month in February serves as an opportunity for a month-long health observance that brings together thousands of people dedicated to health care providers, dental professionals and others to help promote the benefits of good oral health to children, caregivers and teachers. The 2019 campaign slogan is “Brush and clean in between to build a healthy smile.” For those interested in participating, click here to reach the resources provided by the National Education Association (NEA) to help both the parents and the educators to promote good oral health and literacy.
Common Dental Problems with Children
Tooth Decay: This is the destruction of the tooth enamel which can result in cavities. This occurs when bacteria inhabiting the mouth convert the food particles such as sugars and starches, making acids. Thus the combination of the bacteria, acid, saliva and the food particles form a substance called plaque that binds to the teeth. Over time, the acids can affect the tooth enamel and causes cavities. Some of the risk factors for developing tooth decay include a diet high in sugar, poor oral hygiene, increased level of bacteria that causes the cavities and less saliva flow than normal. The treatment of tooth decay in based on removing the decayed part of the teeth and replacing it with a filling.
Ankylosis: This refers to the condition when either a tooth or teeth become fused to the bone and is more common on primary first molars and teeth that have usually suffered a trauma. The treatment is based on the severity of the condition and as a general rule, the earlier it starts, the more severe it becomes with age. Before treatment, it is important to discuss all the risks and benefits with the dentist.
Dental fluorosis: This isn’t a disease and does not affect the health of the teeth either. Dental fluorosis is the appearance of faint white streaks on the teeth that develop among young children who had consumed too much fluoride when the teeth were developing under the gums. In mild cases, the streaks are often unnoticeable.
Mucocele: This is the common benign lesions that develop among children and adolescents because of the rupture of the excretory ducts that deliver saliva to the top tissues of the lips. Also, the habit of lip biting and tongue thrusting are also considered to be one of the aggravating factors. Their size varies becoming ulcers which heal within a few days. However, they tend to re-appear weeks or months later, therefore, surgical treatment is often recommended.
Pulpotomy: This is referred to the pediatric root canal procedure and the goal of it is to maintain the vitality of the tooth so it may not be lost early. The procedure involves removing the infected pulp tissue within the crown of the tooth and medication is placed to prevent infection. The procedure is followed with a final restoration such as a filling or stainless steel crown. However, the early loss of the posterior primary teeth could affect the eruption of permanent teeth in the future. So, it is often considered best to avoid early loss of primary molars by treating the nerve of the infected teeth.
When should a baby have their first Dental Visit
Generally, the first dental visit should take place no later than the first birthday because as soon as their first teeth emerge, there is the possibility they can get cavities. So, early dental care can help keep their healthy smile for life. During their first visit, the dentist will examine the child’s jaw and teeth to make sure they are developing properly. They will also look for any existing decay and other potential problems with the gums and oral tissues. During this visit, the parents will also be educated about oral health basics.
How to Achieve Optimal Oral Health for Children
To achieve oral health among young children, it is often important to involve a wide range of individuals such as parents, dentists and early education providers who are dedicated to the health of children. Here are some tips to achieve optimal oral health;
- The parents could illustrate the importance of good oral habits with model healthy behaviors.
- The intake of sugar in our food has increased in the past few decades and this has, in turn, resulted in gum disease, cavities and various other oral issues for children. Therefore, it is essential to reduce their sugar intake in all forms.
- Use a small quantity of fluoride toothpaste and use only a soft bristle toothbrush
- Start a regular brushing and flossing routine and set a consistent time every day.
- Take them for regular checkups with the dentist as it is an important step to promote oral health. Some of the children are more prone to cavities and other oral health issues, so therefore timely dental care can help.
- Look out for teeth alignment as many of the children may require it, so it is important to get it checked by an orthodontist no later than age 7.
- Make sure the toothpaste contains fluoride and even though it has been under scrutiny, it still is the leading agent against tooth decay acting as a protective barrier for the teeth.
References
https://www.ada.org/en/public-programs/national-childrens-dental-health-month
http://www.nea.org/grants/National-Childrens-Dental-Health-Month.htm
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/f/fluorosis
https://chelseapediatricdentistry.com/services/baby-root-canal/
https://www.americandental.com/my_child_needs_a_dentist/pediatric_common_problems_overview/
https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=90&ContentID=P01848
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/10965-your-childs-first-dental-visit