Common Dental Conditions In Children

Dental decay is the most common condition affecting children’s teeth, with 50% of Australians under 6 years old having cavities (decay). Children do not have sufficient dexterity to brush and floss their teeth causing large amounts of plaque to accumulate. Diet is also important with high sugar and acidic food/drinks providing nutrients for the bacteria in plaque to make acids which break down teeth. This condition is largely preventable with good diet and oral hygiene.

Gum disease (gingivitis) occurs via the same process in adults and children with swollen, sore gums that bleed when brushing noticeable. Good oral hygiene with regular tooth-brushing twice a day at the gumline in soft circular motions is recommended. Flossing once a day in the tight gaps between teeth is recommended. Children do not have sufficient dexterity to brush their own teeth until 6 years of age and need assistance flossing up to ages 10-12.

Molar incisor hypoplasia (MIH)/hypomineralisation is a condition that affects the structure of tooth enamel, resulting in teeth more susceptible to large cavities. Approximately 1 in 6 children have MIH, with the cause of this condition unclear. These teeth are more susceptible to sensitivity, decay and post-eruptive breakdown. Children experience sensitivity eating icecream or drinking cold water. These teeth are more difficult to provide anaesthesia for and require additional interceptive treatment, including stainless steel crowns, fissure seals or extraction.

Trauma is common in active children, affecting 1 in 3 children under 6 years old. Traumatic injuries can involve damage to the crown, root and bone surrounding teeth and sometimes the tooth’s nerve. Once a traumatic incidence has occured it is crucial to ring Avenue Dental ASAP for advice and management as dental trauma can have long-term effects for both baby and adult teeth. Mouthguards and interceptive orthodontic treatment can limit the risk of trauma to teeth.

Developmental and growth conditions may affect the quantity and quality of both baby and adult teeth. In turn, this can have implications on your child’s overall mouth, including the function and aesthetics of a happy, healthy smile. Retention of baby teeth, congenitally missing adult teeth or abnormalities in tooth structure and form is common. Monitoring these conditions is imperative to allow proper treatment planning and interceptive treatment as needed for your child.