Navigating oral health challenges in children can be tricky, especially as they enter their preschool and elementary years. They’re exposed to everything, from sugary snacks to dental anxiety and so much more. However, these are also the most impactful stages of their lives. It’s important to impart the right knowledge and habits to set them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Why Early Oral Health Matters
Oral health is integral to different parts of your overall health. Most dental-related diseases have common risk factors like unhealthy diets, and other chronic illnesses like cardiovascular disease and diabetes are also connected. Teaching your kids to take care of their teeth and gums is an investment toward improving their immunity against other general health conditions.
Prioritizing early oral health is also especially important. Kids tend to utilize what they’ve learned throughout their childhood as adults. If they get used to neglecting their dental hygiene, it can cause oral problems in the long run. That kind of mindset can also be hard to unlearn.
Oral Health Challenges in Children
Preschoolers and elementary kids go through various oral health challenges. As parents, it’s important to recognize the signs and remedy how they treat their teeth.
1. Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
Formula milk and other sweetened fluids are soothing for children. Unfortunately, some toddlers may still want to drink these beverages from baby bottles as they get into preschool. If your child finds comfort sleeping with a bottle, consider giving them water instead.
Parents could also turn to sippy cups, although it’s best to stop using them when a child turns 2 years old and transition to a regular cup. It can be a little messy at first, but you just have to be present in teaching them and cleaning up any messes.
2. Thumb-Sucking and Other Habits
Some habits, like thumb-sucking, are comforting for babies. Unfortunately, kids may continue this reflex in childhood, which can affect your overall bite. Try to keep your child’s hands busy, like giving them a stress ball to squeeze when anxious.
Other harmful habits to avoid include:
- Nail biting: Nail biting could also be harmful to healthy teeth, leading to cracks and chips that will need filling. Talk to them about stopping this behavior. Some parents also find success in using bitter-tasting nail polish to discourage the habit.
- Chewing ice: Children may try chewing ice out of boredom or because it feels refreshing. Suggest other modes of entertainment, like reading or playing a game. If they’re hot, suggest they use a fan instead.
- Opening packages: It’s convenient to open packages with your teeth, but the pressure can also be detrimental to your oral health. Keep safety scissors on hand when they need to open anything. You should also set an example by doing this as well.
3. Inconsistency With Brushing
Some kids find it hard to brush their teeth multiple times a day after meals. Others might even skip it altogether. However, you need to build a habit of being consistent with brushing. Sit them down and share why it’s important.
One of the main problems parents encounter is keeping kids still. You can work on holding your child’s attention by making up a silly song or dance when brushing their teeth. Parents can also invite children to pick out their toothbrush or choose a toothpaste flavor.
4. Losing Baby Teeth
Your children will eventually lose their baby teeth. Some primary teeth, like the central incisors, fall out at 6 to 7 years of age. However, the canine and second molar teeth come out at 10 to 12 years old.
Losing teeth can be a scary change for some kids, especially when it happens seemingly out of the blue. That’s why you need to reassure them that it’s perfectly normal. Let them know that they’re about to grow a new and stronger tooth to replace the one they lost.
5. Exposure to Sugary Snacks and Drinks
Kids are bound to see all kinds of snacks and drinks at school. They may even be inclined to try this plethora of gummies, candies, sodas and more. However, lowering the intake of these sugar items can help prevent cavities in the long run.
Make sure to teach kids about moderating how much they drink and eat. You can also find healthier alternatives for candy, like apples and grapes. Remind them to accompany this with a tall glass of water and to brush their teeth afterward.
6. Avoiding the Dentist
Younger kids may feel unsure about dental appointments, even if they just go twice a year. A study finds that an estimated 30% of children 2 to 6 years old experience dental fear and anxiety. As a parent, you need to explain that checkups are important to see the state of your oral well-being.
Let them know when and where the appointment will be held so they can mentally prepare themselves for the big day. You can answer any questions they are curious about and hold their hand when they’re in the dentist’s chair.
7. Transitioning to Independent Brushing
As your kid moves from preschool to elementary school, you may want to teach them how to become more independent. Solo teeth brushing is a great way to start giving them more responsibility for their oral health. You can watch them the first few times to ensure they’re getting every nook and cranny. With enough time and practice, they’ll be a pro.
8. Lack of Oral Health Education
Some schools lack an oral health education program, which can keep kids in the dark about the risk of tooth decay or the importance of flossing after brushing. Parents should advocate for teachers to implement these lessons. You can also address this by giving your child a quick lecture from time to time as well.
9. Bullying Because of their Teeth
It can be hurtful for parents to know their kids are receiving insults. One study found that oral health problems can increase the chances of being bullied. Whether their teeth are crooked or they’re dealing with bad breath, it does not excuse the behavior.
Focus on making sure your child feels safe. Encourage them to share the whole story and comfort them. From there, you can report the bullying to the school and follow up on the response. Be present at meetings tackling the issue.
Care for Your Kid’s Dental Health
Similar to how parents learn how to care for their children’s teeth and gums, kids are also tackling oral health challenges for the first time. Practice consistency and positivity when instilling these habits. With enough time and effort, your family will surpass these early oral health challenges.
