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Pediatric Dental Infection

Children are particularly vulnerable to dental infections because they do not consider things like oral hygiene and sterile environments, and their immune systems are generally weaker than that of an adult. According to Pediatricdentalhealth.com, dental infections are signaled by the presence of an abscess on or around the teeth. The most common dental infection found in children is dental caries which can lead to a slew of other dental problems.

  1. Infection Causes

    • The infection known as dental caries is caused by a variety of bacteria growing in the mouth that eats away at the protective layers of the teeth called enamel and dentin opening up space for the bacteria to settle in and grow in and around the teeth.

    Detecting Problems

    • Oral exams by a primary care doctor/pediatrician or a dentist is the easiest and most accurate way to detect dental infections in children, which are signaled by discoloration of teeth and the presence of fissures or bacteria.

    Contaminated Toothbrushes

    • Toothbrushes, if not properly maintained can play host to infection-causing microorganisms that can re-infect the mouth. So it is necessary to disinfect them by either bleaching them overnight or washing the toothbrush in a dishwasher with your utensils. Along with cleaning, it is important to let the toothbrush air dry and store it in a well ventilated area, not a closed container. Also, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends replacing your toothbrush every three months and/or after an illness.

    Treatment Options

    • Treatment options for children with dental infections include removal of the infected tooth and draining of accumulated pus. According to Pediactricdentalhealth.com, other treatments such as antibiotics (to be used sparingly, especially in children) and IV fluids may be used in cases of widespread infection and dehydration.

    Preventing Infection

    • Along with maintaining a sanitary toothbrush, the use of fluoride in water or toothpaste is the most effective way to prevent dental infections in children.

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