Dental health is something that parents can’t afford to overlook when it comes to their child’s development. A kid should ideally visit a local dentist every six months to promote good oral health. In the U.S., about 1 out of 5 children aged 5 to 11 have at least one untreated decayed tooth. This is often caused by some level of ignored dental health. Apart from tooth decay, there are several other signs to keep an eye out for that tell you your child needs urgent dental care. These signs include:
1. Toothaches
Pain is an important indicator that something is wrong with our body, and a toothache is a prime example of this. If your child complains about a toothache, you should take them to see a dentist sooner rather than later. Early treatment ensures that the problem doesn’t escalate.
2. Discolored Teeth
Spots on your child’s teeth signal that cavities may be starting to develop. These spots can appear as white or brown on the teeth. If you notice spots start to form, it’s time for a trip to the family dentist. They will help treat the problem and help prevent extensive tooth decay.
3. Sensitivity
If your child complains about sensitive teeth while drinking cold beverages like soda or warm beverages like hot tea, they may be developing a cavity. Seeking dental service quickly will help bring your child some much-needed relief.
4. Tooth Development Issues
Every mouth is different, meaning there is a chance that your child’s teeth may become misaligned. Pediatric dentists can diagnose this early and evaluate how your child’s teeth are coming in. If they notice that something is off, they may recommend that your child gets braces to prevent issues later on in life.
Additionally, dentists can check for speech issues during checkups. Addressing speech issues caused by tooth development now can prevent them from being carried into adulthood.
5. Bite Issues
Some children experience bite issues, which can lead to problems with chewing and swallowing. This, in turn, can affect their nutrition. If your child suffers from bite issues, plan to visit local dentists ASAP.
6. Sensitive Gums
If your child has bleeding or swollen gums after they brush or floss, they could have gingivitis. This is something you’ll want to diagnose soon so that you can treat it early on.
7. Delayed Growth
For some children, it takes a while longer for baby teeth to fall out — even when the adult teeth start to come in. This could cause the growth of crooked adult teeth. Crooked adult teeth may require orthodontic treatment and, if untreated, can cause wear and tear on the teeth, gums, and jaw.
Book a Dental Appointment Today
If your child has experienced any of the issues mentioned above, don’t ignore them — visit a Kirkland family dentist. Remember, seeing one early on can prevent minor dental problems such as toothaches from developing into more complex problems like tooth decay and gum disease.
Are you searching for a family dentist in Kirkland, WA? Contact Thomas Dentistry today. Our team of skilled pediatric dentists has vast experience working with children and knows how to brighten their smiles.
