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Dental Problems in Toddlers

Sugary drinks, thumb-sucking, night-time feedings and poor oral hygiene all seem to be common causes of the dental problems that some toddlers experience. Unfortunately, these problems often result in expensive and painful dental procedures that can be avoided. According to the American Dental Association, most children develop a full set of primary teeth by the time they are 3 years old, and it is important that their parents help them take good care of these teeth. Parents can do this by learning how to identify common dental problems and how to prevent them.

  1. Early Childhood Caries

    • Early childhood caries, or ECC, or baby bottle tooth decay can develop in toddlers if they have too much bacteria. Poor dental hygiene, frequently eating or drinking foods that contain natural or processed sugar and getting saliva passed on from an adult increase the amount of bacteria in a child's mouth that can cause tooth decay. Parents should look out for white spots on their toddler's front teeth because it is one of the first signs of this problem. They also should brush their toddler's teeth regularly, give them water to drink between meals and at bedtime and ensure that they only use their own utensils while eating. Annual dental appointments should also begin at the age of 1.

    Malocclusion

    • A toddler who has an uneven upper and lower jaw suffers from malocclusion, which often causes them to have an overbite or underbite. Although there are several ways to correct this issue, it may take several years or even surgery to do so. Parents of toddlers can avoid these problems by having their children stop using a bottle as soon as they are ready to drink from a cup. Thumb-sucking or the use of a pacifier also should be discouraged after a child's third birthday. Parents should take their child to a dentist if they notice him experiencing pain while chewing or regularly breathing through his mouth.

    Teeth Discoloration

    • While some toddlers have a higher risk of developing stains on their teeth because of an illness or other health condition they may have suffered during their early years, toddlers that do not brush correctly or are overexposed to fluoride also may develop stains on their teeth. Parents should do their best to inspect their toddler's teeth for gray, brown or white stains and consult a dentist if they notice any discoloration. Parents also should help their toddlers thoroughly brush their teeth with a nonfluoride toothpaste until they are at least 2 years old and can use regular toothpaste without swallowing it.

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