Top Dental Issues Parents Should Watch for at Every Age Stage
Dental health is crucial at every age, from the moment that a baby starts getting their teeth. As parents, dental health is sometimes put on the back burner, or we don’t monitor what we should, which is why we are outlining some of the top dental issues parents should watch for based on their child’s age. As soon as your child cuts their first tooth, they should start seeing a dentist, lightly brushing their teeth, and paying attention to dental health. Early detection of dental issues can lead to better outcomes and help prevent serious complications. At Sage Dental, we are dedicated to providing dental care for your entire family, with a commitment to preventive care and expert dental care.
Infant Stage
The infant stage is the first dental stage, which lasts from 0 to 2 years of age and begins when a baby cuts their first tooth. Typically, you will start to see signs of teething during this period. This includes discomfort, irritability, drooling, biting on fingers or objects, and visible tooth eruption. You can help keep your children comfortable with age-appropriate Tylenol if needed, or use cold teethers or teethers that can be frozen to help numb the area.
Once the tooth starts to come in and is visible, you’ll want to brush any visible teeth that they have. Do this with an infant toothbrush and ensure that you are cleaning their tongue as well. Tooth decay can occur at this age, usually caused by milk, juice, or bedtime bottles, which leave residue on the teeth that accumulates. Monitor for darkening of the tooth, spots, or fragile teeth. If you notice any potential signs of concern, it’s essential to consult a dentist. That said, your child should also have their first dental appointment when they begin to develop teeth to establish proper dental hygiene habits.
Toddler Stage
The toddler stage typically lasts from ages 2 to 4, and this is when parents may first notice early childhood cavities. Usually around this time, children begin consuming foods and beverages with higher sugar content, which may be detrimental to their dental health. It’s vital to monitor how much sugar your child is consuming and to ensure that your child’s teeth are brushed twice daily for two minutes at a time to prevent dental caries and promote healthy dental habits. At this age, it’s also recommended to stop all pacifier use or thumb sucking and ensure they are no longer using any sort of bottle with nipples. Using these at this age can negatively affect tooth and jaw development.
At this age, toddlers can be a little tricky to coerce when it comes to brushing their teeth or getting rid of things like pacifiers, so we recommend making it fun for them. When brushing, you can have them select their toothbrush and attempt to brush their teeth themselves before you take over. When it comes to removing objects such as pacifiers, you can make it fun for them by giving them independence, making them feel “older” than they are, and allowing them to throw the pacifiers away themselves.
Early Childhood
The early childhood stage lasts from ages 5 to, and for this age specifically, it’s crucial to pay close attention to signs of tooth decay and cavities. Because the children are older, they typically eat different foods, eat at school, and may be given more independence, including the ability to brush their teeth independently, which may not be done properly. Work with your family dentist to implement preventive care, such as sealants, to prevent future cavities. Premature tooth loss is also a concern, as it can affect tooth spacing as the child ages and adult teeth begin to emerge. Consult your dentist about space maintainers if you find that your child is experiencing premature tooth loss.
Middle Childhood
The middle childhood stage lasts from about ages 8 to 11, and this is the time when you should pay attention to symptoms such as crowding, crossbite, overbite, and underbite. If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to contact your dentist to develop a plan to address these issues. It’s also important to monitor for bruxism, which is teeth grinding or clenching, which can be caused by stress and can damage your teeth. A standard approach to this issue is to wear mouth guards at night. Be sure to contact our Sage Dental family dentistry if you notice any of these symptoms in your child.
Adolescence Stage
Dental health is vital as your child enters adolescence, which spans ages 12 to 18. This is when you can start noticing wisdom teeth issues, such as early symptoms of impaction or potential signs of discomfort if they are coming in. Keep your dentist informed if your child is experiencing wisdom tooth discomfort and impaction to develop a plan for removal.
Cavity risk remains a concern at this age, especially given the increase in sugary drinks and snacks. This is also the prime age for preventive or corrective measures, such as braces or clear aligners, to straighten teeth, as all adult teeth are present.
How You Can Stay Proactive as a Parent
As a parent, it’s crucial to stay on top of preventive care to avoid additional dental issues in your children. Emphasize the importance of regular dental cleanings to minimize plaque buildup and enable the dentist to monitor potential problems and detect them early. Start brushing your child’s teeth and practicing proper dental hygiene at a young age to instill the habit and ensure they continue to maintain their brushing and flossing habits. It’s also essential as a parent to inspect your child’s teeth and monitor any changes or issues they may be experiencing. At Sage Dental, we are here to help you with preventive care and hygiene care for your entire family. Contact us, and let us work together to create a plan for your children to maintain optimal dental health throughout their lives.
