When Your Child Needs a Dental Checkup

Some dental issues start early on, meaning your child might need a dental checkup at an early age. Even if the child is relatively young, there could be tooth decay or white spots. It means you should think about making your child’s dental appointment as soon as possible. Keep reading to learn more.

Having brown or white spots on the teeth

If there are already chalky spots on the teeth, the child needs to see the dentist. That might indicate tooth decay that happens because of delayed care. White spots might happen because of bad habits. For instance, the child should not go to sleep with a bottle in the mouth. The child might have calcium deposits on the teeth, or the teeth might begin to decay.

Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures

Tooth sensitivity can be distressing, and it might cause a tingling feeling. That might prevent children from having frozen foods or hot drinks. Children may not understand the cause of the issue, and it can be frustrating. The reason might be gum recession, exposing the dentine. The child might have discomfort during cleaning or when having cold or hot things.

Toothache

Tooth decay and gum disease might lead to a toothache. The dentist can diagnose that during a dental checkup. Tooth decay might happen at a young age. Having milk and formula can cause bacteria and plaque to buildup.

The toothache might lead to throbbing pain, fever, or a headache, leading to non-stop crying. The child may become inactive at some point. The child might also find it hard to eat. In more severe cases, the child’s face may become swollen. If the child has these symptoms, it is time for a dental checkup. The parent should schedule the appointment as soon as possible to prevent other issues.

Tooth decay and cavities

If there are white or brown spots on the teeth, it might mean there will soon be a cavity. Without action or proper hygiene, it might cause decay. Some causes of decay might include bacteria, low production of saliva, or sugary foods and beverages. Failure to clean the teeth can also lead to potential issues. The good news is a dentist can find these issues during a dental checkup.

Tooth or jaw misalignment

No matter the child’s age, if there is misalignment, the child should see the dentist. During the dental checkup, the dentist can see if the upper and lower teeth meet correctly. The dentist will check if there is a missing tooth too. Misalignments could cause breathing, eating, and speaking issues. They might also cause discomfort and pain.

Choose the right dental checkup today

You might wonder when you should take your child to see the dentist. However, it is usually right to take the child before the first birthday. That allows the child to become more comfortable with the dentist. It gives the child a chance to become familiar with checkups. Making an appointment today is the first step in helping your child be healthier.

Request an appointment here: https://www.dentistinridgewood.com or call John D. Aston, DMD at (201) 620-9996 for an appointment in our Ridgewood office.

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