Bright Smiles, Happier Kids & Teens

It is very important to maintain primary teeth health. Neglected cavities frequently lead to problems which affect developing permanent teeth. Primary teeth – or baby teeth – are important for (1) proper chewing and eating, (2) providing space for permanent teeth and guiding them into the correct position, and (3) permitting normal development of jaw bones and muscles. Primary teeth also affect the development of speech and add to an attractive appearance. While the front 4 teeth last until 6-7 years of age, the back cuspids and molars aren’t replaced with permanent teeth until age 10-13.

Tooth brushing is one of the most important tasks for good oral health. But, many toothpastes and tooth polishes can damage young smiles with harsh abrasives, which can wear away young tooth enamel. When looking for a toothpaste for your child, make sure to pick one that is recommended by the American Dental Association, as shown on the box and tube. These toothpastes have undergone testing to insure they are safe to use.

Use only a smear of toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice) to brush the teeth of a child less than 3 years of age. For children 3 to 6 years old, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and perform or assist your child’s toothbrushing. Remember that young children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively on their own. Children should not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing.

Parents are often concerned about their children grinding their treeth while they sleep (bruxism). Often, the first indication of bruxism is the noise created by the grinding, or, the parent may notice teeth wearing down. One theory is that psychology affects bruxism. Stress due to a new environment, divorce, changes at school, etc. can influence a child to grind their teeth. Another theory links pressure in the inner ear. If there are pressure changes (like in an airplane during take-off and landing, when people are chewing gum, etc.) the child will grind by moving their jaw to relieve this pressure.

The majority of cases of pediatric bruxism do not require any treatment. If excessive wear of the teeth – attrition – is present, then a nightly mouth guard may be prescribed. The good news is that most children outgrow bruxism. The grinding typically decreases between the ages of 6-9 and children tend to stop grinding altogether between ages 9-12. If you suspect bruxism, discuss this with your pediatrician or pediatric dentist.

Developing malocclusions – or bad bites – can be recognized as early as 2-3 years of age. Often, early steps can be taken to reduce the need for major
orthodontic treatment at a later age.

Stage I – Early Treatment: This period of treatment encompasses ages 2 to 6. At this young age, we are concerned with underdeveloped dental arches, the premature loss of primary teeth, and harmful habits such as finger or thumb sucking. Treatment initiated during this stage of development is often very successful and many times, though not always, can eliminate the need for future orthodontic/orthopedic treatment.

Stage II – Mixed Dentition: This period covers the ages of 6 to 12, with the eruption of the permanent incisor (front) teeth and 6 year molars. Treatment concerns deal with jaw malrelationships and dental realignment problems. This is an excellent stage to start treatment, when indicated, as your child’s hard and soft tissues are usually very responsive to orthodontic or orthopedic forces.

Stage III – Adolescent Dentition: This stage deals with the permanent teeth and the development of the final bite relationship.