Children's smiles have a unique way of brightening up any room and spreading joy. To keep those smiles healthy, they need a little extra care. Kids can face many of the same dental problems as adults, but their teeth are softer and still developing, making them more susceptible to issues that could escalate if not addressed early. Taking care of these problems now can prevent them from becoming more serious later!
Ensuring your child's oral health begins with early dental care and regular dental visits. It's important to bring your child to a dental clinic in Singapore for their first visit as soon as their primary teeth, or baby teeth, start to appear. Let's explore some common dental issues to watch out for, so you can help keep your child's smile healthy and happy!
Cavities, or tooth decay, are a common concern among children in Singapore. In fact, research shows that 40% of kids under the age of six have cavities. This often happens because of a diet high in sugary snacks and drinks. An early attention to infant oral health helps prevent tooth decay and establishes good dental habits. Pediatric dentistry focuses on maintaining your child's teeth from the first set of baby teeth to the transition to permanent teeth.
One specific type of decay in infants is called baby bottle tooth decay. This happens when babies fall asleep with a bottle in their mouth for long periods. The sugar from the bottle coats their teeth, causing decay, especially in the front teeth.
Gum disease is another issue seen in children. It happens when plaque accumulates along the gum line, leading to gum inflammation and bleeding.
Addressing habits like thumb sucking and providing consistent oral health care are essential parts of a comprehensive oral health programme. Misaligned teeth and bite issues are common among children of various ages. These problems can make it hard to eat and talk and they might also affect your child's confidence.
Misaligned teeth and bite issues can be fixed with braces or Invisalign. Traditional braces use metal wires and brackets to slowly move teeth into their correct positions and work well for many alignment problems. Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners custom-made for your child’s teeth. These aligners gradually shift teeth into place and are almost invisible, making them a popular choice for older kids and teens who prefer a more discreet option.
Did you know that kids as young as 5 years old can wear Invisalign? Find out more here!
Accidents can happen, and dental trauma, such as chipped or knocked-out teeth, is a concern for active children. Immediate care is crucial to minimise damage.
Broken, chipped or knocked-out teeth from accidents or injuries
Teething is a normal developmental stage but can be uncomfortable. It involves the eruption of the first set of teeth and can cause fussiness and discomfort.
Children typically lose their milk teeth naturally between the ages of 6 and 12, with new permanent teeth growing in to replace them. However, if your child experiences tooth decay, they might lose a baby tooth too early—often before age 6. This early loss can impact the development and alignment of their permanent teeth, potentially leading to misalignment or spacing issues.
Early loss of baby teeth, which may lead to gaps or misalignment
In most cases, baby teeth naturally loosen and fall out as permanent teeth come in. This process allows new, adult teeth to take their place smoothly. However, if baby teeth remain stubbornly in place even after the permanent teeth have erupted, it’s important to consult with your dentist.
Persistent baby teeth can interfere with the proper alignment of permanent teeth and may require professional attention to ensure your child’s dental development proceeds correctly.
Being proactive about your child’s dental health can help address common issues and ensure their smile stays bright. Regular visits to the dentist and access to quality dental services play a vital role in safeguarding your child’s oral health.
If you have any worries about your child’s dental health, simply send us a message here to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Singapore. We’re here to offer the right care and guidance for your child’s needs!
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