Understanding Common Problems Found by a Pediatric Dentist

Baby Bottle Decay
Seeing tooth decay in young children is a very sad thing and it can set him or her on a lifetime of dental problems, so it is not unusual for parents to worry about factors that could be prevented.  Baby bottle decay, which goes by a number of other similar names, is simply the frequent contact between baby teeth and sugary liquids.  Unfortunately, there are very few alternatives that parents can turn to as sugar-free baby-friendly beverages.  Even formula and milk, which are among the top picks for parents, contain sugars that can eat away at the precious chompers of baby.  In fact, there have been cases of infants who have had nothing but breast milk developing tooth decay.  Regardless of how it came to be, it is very important that tooth decay is dealt with as soon as possible.  When it isn’t, it can cause pain and difficulty eating.  It can lead to abscess or even result in a tooth lost early.

For those looking to prevent decay, avoid sugary substances and ensure the child’s teeth are brushed regularly.  Rather than giving a bottle of milk at naptime, you might want to consider a bottle of water.  If the child is too young to understand teeth brushing, then consider using a warm cloth or a finger brush, which can be found at many stores that sell baby supplies.

Thumb and Lip Sucking Syndromes
We all know that thumb sucking, lip sucking, or even use of a pacifier can lead to misalignment of teeth, if it is continued beyond the infant years or done in excess.  Yet, it is difficult to stop these undesirable behaviors in children.  While a pacifier can simply be taken away, it is not so easy with a thumb or lip.  Friendly and encouraging reminders can do the trick.  After all, it is ultimately up to the child when the behavior will end.  Remember that yelling or criticizing the child can have far worse results because children usually do it as a source of comfort or to relieve stress.

Bye Bye Baby Teeth: An Early Farewell 
Typically, when a tooth naturally falls out, it is simply because it is time for it to occur, but early tooth loss can happen for a number of different reasons.  Decay and injury are the leading two causes.  Decay can be avoided by cutting back on sugar intake and encouraging proper dental hygiene.  Injury, on the other hand, is not entirely preventable.  Kids are kids and they do get hurt from time to time.  If an accident happens, then do your best to get the child to a Colorado Springs pediatric dentist as soon as possible.  The tooth may be able to be saved if immediate attention is received.  Otherwise, the dentist might determine that a space filler is need to prevent future misalignment.