The occurrence of tooth decay in children is not uncommon but rather quite prevalent. Parents need not overly worry if they have read and fully understood the information regarding tooth decay in children, including the most effective preventive measures and treatments.
What is tooth decay in children?
The primary role of teeth is to aid in chewing and grinding food to facilitate digestion. Additionally, teeth play a crucial role in speech and daily communication.
Dental caries in children share similarities with tooth decay symptoms in adults. In simple terms, it is a form of damage to the tooth enamel that directly affects a child's teeth. The enamel and outer surface layers of the teeth serve as protective barriers, ensuring their strength and functionality. When these structures are compromised by dental caries, the teeth gradually lose their ability to fulfill their intended functions. Moreover, the condition can spread to the gums, tooth roots, dental pulp, and neighboring teeth.
According to studies conducted by leading dental experts, dental caries in children is quite common and, in some cases, more prevalent than in adults. This is primarily due to the fact that the majority of children have primary teeth, which have a relatively thinner and more sensitive structure compared to permanent teeth in adults.
Similar to tooth decay in adults, dental caries in children is caused by bacterial attack and the acids present in the oral cavity. Factors such as consumption of sugary foods, sweetened beverages, and poor oral hygiene contribute to the occurrence of dental caries in children.
How to identify dental caries in children?
The signs and symptoms of dental caries in children can vary from one child to another, depending on their age, the severity of the condition, and the size of the cavities.
In the early stages, dental caries in children may only appear as small yellow spots on the tooth surface, making it difficult to detect unless parents pay close attention and schedule regular dental check-ups for their child.
As the discoloration and plaque develop further, turning yellow or black, accompanied by discomfort or pain in the affected tooth, it becomes easier to notice the presence of dental caries.
However, when dental caries in children progresses, it becomes more aggressive and poses a risk of spreading to the gum tissues and neighboring teeth.
Here are some common symptoms and signs that can help you identify dental caries in children more easily:
- Formation of spots or plaque on the tooth surface as the teeth start to erupt.
- Appearance of small black or brownish-yellow cavities on the teeth.
- Increased sensitivity of the child's teeth to sweet foods, cold or hot temperatures.
- Discomfort or pain when biting or applying pressure to the tooth.
- Occasional episodes of toothache.
- Swollen gum tissues.
- Development of bad breath.
- Applying pressure on the tooth causes pain, swelling of the face, or fever.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is advisable to seek professional dental care for your child promptly.
>> See more: Danger Of cavities in wisdom teeth and Effective Solutions
Why is dental caries in children considered important?
Currently, dental caries in children are often not given much attention by parents, as they may have a misconception that their child's primary teeth will be replaced anyway. However, this assumption is not entirely accurate, and dental caries can have significant implications, including:
- Impact on permanent teeth: While primary teeth will eventually shed, dental caries can affect the proper eruption of permanent teeth, leading to misalignment and affecting the overall dental structure of the child.
- Developmental delays: Dental caries can hinder a child's ability to chew, bite, and grind food for digestion, which can result in nutritional deficiencies and delayed development.
- Speech and communication: Teeth also play a crucial role in a child's ability to articulate and communicate effectively. As a child's speech and language skills are developing, maintaining healthy primary teeth is vital for proper pronunciation and communication.
Therefore, it is essential to prioritize the prevention and treatment of dental caries in children to ensure their oral health, overall development, and future dental well-being.
Which is the best pediatric dental clinic in Ho Chi Minh City?
Treating or extracting teeth can be a truly fearful experience for children. Due to their young age and sensitivity to pain, they often do not want to visit the dentist. As parents, it is important to always pay attention to the oral health of our children to ensure their dental development.
With a team of experienced doctors, dentists, as well as nurses and staff who have worked in the field of dentistry for many years, Champion Dental Clinic has consistently satisfied and received high praise from parents for their dental care services.
At Champion Dental Clinic, not only do they have a professional team of doctors, but they also have state-of-the-art facilities and treatment rooms, providing the most comfortable and best environment for children. Come to Champion Dental Clinic, where parents can feel at ease knowing that their children will receive top-quality dental care without worrying about the quality or cost.
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中文: (028) 5411-2297 172 Nguyen Luong Bang, Tan Phu Ward, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City.
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