Dental health is extremely important for children as they grow older. Unfortunately, there are several dental problems that your child might face as they get older.

This article highlights the top dental problems that your child might experience to help you be better prepared.

Malocclusion

Malocclusion is the misalignment of teeth when the jaw is closed. It can occur in both children and adults, but it is more common in children due to their still-developing dental structures. This can happen due to many reasons, such as thumb sucking, pacifier use, or genetics.

Malocclusion can be mild, moderate, or severe and can affect one or both jaws. The most common type of malocclusion is an overbite, which occurs when the upper teeth extend and grow past the lower teeth.

Other types of malocclusions include an underbite, crossbite, and open bite. An underbite is when the lower teeth protrude more than the upper teeth. A crossbite occurs when the upper and lower teeth don't line up correctly, while an open bite is when there's a space between the teeth when the jaw is closed.

While some cases of malocclusion are merely cosmetic, others can cause functional problems such as difficulty biting or chewing. Also, when teeth are misaligned, it's harder to keep them clean, which leads to an increase in plaque and tartar buildup.

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the alignment of the teeth. However, in most cases, malocclusion can be treated with braces or other orthodontic devices. These devices can gradually move the teeth into the correct position over time. So if you think your child may be affected by malocclusion, talk to your dentist about treatment options.

Dental Caries

Dental caries, more commonly known as cavities, are one of the most common childhood dental problems. Cavities are usually a result of plaque, a sticky bacterial layer that forms on teeth. When plaque is not removed, it can harden and form tartar. Tartar is much more difficult to deal with plaque and can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist.

Cavities occur when the acids in plaque and tartar start to eat away at the enamel, the hard outer layer of the tooth. This process can eventually lead to a hole in the tooth, known as a cavity. If left untreated, cavities can cause pain, sensitivity, and even infection.

The best way to prevent cavities is through good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing daily as well as visiting the dentist regularly.

If your child does get a cavity, your dentist will likely recommend treatment with a filling. Fillings are used to fill in the hole left by the cavity and restore the tooth to its original shape and function. They are made of a mixture of different materials that match the color of your child's teeth.

For more information, go to sites of pediatric dentists in your area.

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