Even with the most conscientious parenting, it can be difficult to coax young children into caring for their teeth and gums properly. This is one reason why regular visits to your dentist in Mountain View, CA, are so important. Intermittent cleaning, combined with good oral health training and education, are two of the best defenses against many of the most common oral health conditions found in pediatric patients, including the following.

Tooth Decay

Millions of children under the age of five struggle with tooth decay. In the youngest patients, this condition is often caused by inappropriate use of a milk bottle. This includes adding ingredients such as sugar to milk or formula to encourage babies to drink it and allowing babies to sleep with a bottle of milk in their mouths.

Overbite

Excessive use of a pacifier, thumb-sucking, or tongue-thrusting may all contribute to a malocclusion, such as an overbite, in babies and young children. The sooner the condition is found, the easier it is to correct.

Premature Loss of Teeth

If a child loses a baby tooth too early, the surrounding teeth may shift, even if they have yet to erupt. This can result in crooked, crowded, or widely spaced permanent teeth. Because baby teeth act as spacers until permanent teeth can grow in, losing them too soon can cause future dental problems.

Trauma

Children who are just learning to walk have a higher risk of suffering dental trauma. This includes chipped baby teeth, dental concussions, and root fractures. If your child has recently suffered a fall, even a minor bump, that affected their teeth or mouth, a visit to your pediatric dentist is a good idea.

Gum Disease

Even young patients can develop gum disease. Usually, this is a result of inadequate brushing and missed dental appointments. Most children who have gum disease have the mild form of gingivitis. Still, it can be painful, causing tender gums, soreness, and bleeding.

Pediatric Dentistry in Mountain View, CA

If your child needs regular pediatric dental care in Mountain View, CA, or the surrounding area, Joseph M. Cassara, DDS, is available to help. Cassara Dental is staffed by an experienced and friendly team of dental professionals who are experts at interacting with children and infants. Call today to schedule a consultation.