Parents sometimes downplay the importance of taking their kids to a dentist. The truth is that dental problems can affect both adults and children. As such, it's good to have your kids checked by a pediatric dentist often. Children's dentistry is a field that aims to address the oral health of both kids and teens.
Don't assume that kids don't necessarily have to see a dentist because they will lose their baby teeth. Remember that dental problems can also affect the underlying adult teeth. So, if you spot the following signs, take your kid to a pediatric dentist as soon as possible.
Cavities in Your Kid's Teeth
Kids are susceptible to cavities and dental decay because of their habits. Most kids love eating candies and sugary things that are known to increase the risk of cavities. As such, you ought to ensure that your kid's teeth are intact.
Have them open their mouth and inspect their teeth for cavities. If you notice any holes and chips in your kid's teeth, take them to a children's dentist. This way, the dentist will treat the cavities and prevent them from advancing to severe tooth decay.
Swollen or Bleeding Gums
Unlike conditions such as toothaches or tooth sensitivity, it's easy to spot swollen or bleeding gums in a child. Your kids may even tell you that there's blood in their mouths. If that happens, inspect their gums and take them to a pediatric dentist.
In most cases, bleeding and swollen gums are a sign of infections starting to grow. That said, it's essential to have the gums checked out by a dentist. You never know whether your kid has gingivitis or periodontitis.
Toothaches
Toothaches don't affect adults only. Kids also experience toothaches, and theirs is worse because they often can't handle the pain as well as adults do. So, if your kid complains about tooth pain, there is a likelihood that something is wrong with their teeth. As such, you need to make an appointment with a pediatric dentist. Don't make the mistake of giving painkillers thinking that the pain will end.
Stained or Discolored Teeth
Another sign that your child needs to visit a dentist is if the color of their teeth is changing. Milk teeth should retain their standard color unless there is an underlying problem. You shouldn't downplay the problem, as stained teeth might signal the presence of cavities or dead nerves. That said, stained teeth show that your kid needs the urgent assessment of a children's dentist.
Contact a local dentist to learn more.
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