Why Are Kids Getting More Dental Problems These Days? Causes and Solutions

You most likely have stumbled upon this article because you have the same question in your mind. As a parent or guardian, you have probably noticed that more kids today are dealing with dental issues like cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay. And it’s alarming!

However, the good news is that these problems can be taken care of with a bit of knowledge and effort. By understanding the causes and taking proper measures, you can protect your child’s precious, cute smile for years to come.

Causes of Increased Dental Problems in Kids

These are some of the main factors contributing to the rise of dental issues among children nowadays. Let’s take a look at these reasons.

Poor Diet and Sugar Intake

Children eat sugary foods and drinks, and it’s normal for them to crave such foods at that age. However, as parents, you should also remember that sugary snacks, sodas, and even processed foods can cause tooth decay. The sugar in these foods feeds harmful bacteria in our mouth, which can lead to cavities.

Dried fruits which are seen as healthy, also contain sugars that can stick to the teeth and can cause damage with time. Therefore, it’s absolutely crucial to monitor sugar intake in children. 

Lack of Proper Oral Hygiene

Many children don’t brush their teeth as thoroughly as they should, or they may skip flossing altogether. Not brushing after meals can leave food particles and sugars in the mouth, increasing tooth decay risk. 

As parents you should make sure that your child brushes their teeth twice daily and floss once daily. Make sure they know the importance of fluoride toothpaste for better protection.

Frequent Snacking

Eating every two hours, especially healthy food is fine. But muching on unhealthy foods every now and then isn’t. Constant snacking, especially on sugary or sticky foods, doesn’t give the mouth a chance to recover. 

This will eventually lead to a buildup of plaque, which can damage tooth enamel and increase the risk of cavities. Encouraging healthier snacks like fruits, vegetables, and nuts can help maintain good oral health.

Genetic Factors

Some children are simply more prone to dental problems due to their family history. If there’s a history of gum disease, tooth decay, or other dental issues in the family, kids may be at a higher risk. While we can’t change genetics, regular dental checkups can help spot issues early and prevent them from worsening.

Research says that some children are simply more prone to dental problems due to their family history. If you have a history of gum disease, your child may likely inherit gum disease as well.

While we can’t change genetics, regular dental checkups can help spot any issues early and prevent them from worsening. So, visiting a dentist is a must.

Increased Use of Digital Devices

The rise in screen time has led to more sedentary lifestyles among children. Kids spend hours on devices, which often means they’re not getting enough physical activity or paying attention to oral hygiene. Encourage active play and outdoor activities to keep your child’s overall health and dental health on track.

Kids are more keen on spending hours on digital devices, which means that they are not getting enough physical activity or paying attention to their oral hygiene.

Our advice? Encourage active play and outdoor activities to keep your child mentally occupied and engaged. As a parent, you should pay attention to your children’s brushing habits and techniques.

Common Dental Issues Kids Face

Here are some of the most common dental problems kids face today:

• Tooth Decay: Caused by plaque and bacteria buildup from sugary foods and poor oral hygiene.
• Cavities: Small holes in teeth that form from tooth decay.
• Gum Disease: Infections in the gums caused by plaque buildup can lead to bleeding and swelling.
• Malocclusion (Misalignment of Teeth): Crooked teeth or bite issues may require orthodontic treatment.

How Parents Can Help Prevent Dental Problems

With that said, let’s talk about what you can do as a parent to help prevent dental problems for your child:

Establishing Healthy Eating Habits

Encourage your child to eat a balanced diet with fewer sugary foods. Offer healthy snacks like apples, carrots, and yogurt. Drinking water instead of sugary drinks is another great way to help prevent tooth decay in children.

Promoting Proper Oral Hygiene

Ensure your child brushes their teeth properly with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily. Teach them to floss and brush correctly so food doesn’t get stuck between their teeth. Monitor younger children until they can brush and floss on their own. 

Regular Dental Checkups

Routine dental visits are essential for your child’s oral health. Schedule regular dental checkups with a pediatric dentist like Dr. Anthony Marra at Huntersville Pediatric Dentistry. These checkups can help catch any problems early before they become serious.

Limiting Digital Device Use

Encourage your child to play outside, do physical activities, and engage in face-to-face conversations rather than spend hours on digital devices. Active play can also help prevent health problems that are associated with a sedentary lifestyle.

We hope you understand why children are more prone to dental problems these days. Taking preventive steps today will help ensure that your child’s teeth stay healthy in the future. 

And while your child’s dental health is your top priority, it’s important to remember that dental care extends to all ages. If you or a loved one is facing tooth loss, dentures in Huntersville, NC, can provide a comfortable solution to restore your smile.

Dr. Anthony Marra at Huntersville Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is here to help with dental concerns, including pediatric care and adult services. Book an appointment today and give your child the best start for their dental health!

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