If you are navigating parenthood for the first time and are confused about what dental procedures may be needed for your child, you are not alone! From your child’s first baby tooth to their first orthodontic appliance, our team at Premier Dental Center in Lockhart is excited to answer your questions. 20% of children between the ages of 5 and 11 will develop some kind of dental issue, with the most common being cavities. Here are the most common dental issues and treatments that may pop up during your kid’s childhood.
Cavities and Tooth Decay
As we mentioned, most children will experience at least one cavity in their childhood. A cavity usually occurs because of poor dental hygiene or unhealthy eating habits, but sometimes it can be linked to genetics. The best way to prevent your child from having a cavity, or numerous and frequent cavities, is to teach them to brush their teeth twice per day for two minutes each time and floss daily. You can also prevent cavities in your children by eliminating high sugar from their diet and switching to delicious fruits and vegetables.
Accidents Happen
Kids are rough and tumble, and that means their mouths can take the brunt of it. Whether your child was hit by a stray baseball during practice, fell off the trampoline and caught themselves with their teeth, or got a little rough with their play – dental emergencies in children are very common. While the old saying, “accidents happen” is true, you can do your best to help your child prevent losing or breaking a tooth due to a dental trauma by having them wear mouthguards during physical activity. If your child does suffer from a dental emergency, don’t wait! Call our office right away.
Straighten Up
Getting straighter teeth is not just an elective cosmetic procedure, but a dental procedure that can drastically improve the quality of life of your child. Braces, Invisalign, or other orthodontic devices and appliances can help straighten your child’s smile, correct overbites or crossbites, and improve spacing and overall gum health. 80% of children will need braces before they turn 18, making it an incredibly common dental issue. For parents, braces can seem like a pricey option, but remember, you are investing in your child’s overall health. In addition, there are many options for parents now than ever before when it comes to braces, including Invisalign.
We Support Parents
If you have questions about your child’s dental health or what they may be facing in the future, please don’t hesitate to chat with our dental professionals. We work hard to support your family in all dental decisions by providing excellent dental resources. Start by scheduling an appointment today.