One of the most challenging decisions parents regularly make is when to take their children to see a dentist. The reason is that many issues solve themselves with time, and people prefer to have that happen rather than spending time and money at a dental office. This approach can backfire, though, as some problems signal a need for professional help. Here are seven of them.
Chronic Pain
A day or two of tooth or gum pain for your children may not worry you. However, when that becomes three days or more, it is time to go to the dentist. The reason is that an extended period of discomfort almost always signals a more significant problem. Seeing a professional right away will help solve that issue as quickly as possible.
Bleeding Gums
Next, we have bleeding gums. This symptom is indicative of two things. One, your children might not floss enough, meaning the gums are sensitive and need more care. The second is a gum disease, which is much more severe. Either way, it is a good idea to speak with your dentist.
Receding Gums
One thing to note about gum recession is that it almost never affects children. Instead, it is typically an issue that the elderly have. Still, if you noticed gum loss in your children, it could be a sign of a more significant oral health problem.
Shifting Teeth
Parents often have a tough time with this one because they know that kids lose their baby teeth early in life. This fact causes them to not take shifting teeth seriously. Unfortunately, this approach can lead to more significant issues later on in life. Instead, get those moving teeth checked out by a pediatric dentist.
Bumps and Sores
What is confusing about bumps is that many of them go away on their own, a typical example being canker sores. On the other hand, your child might develop a thrush, which is a much more severe condition. Without professional help, this fungal infection could cause your child harm.
Dry Mouth
Saliva is essential to oral health. The reason is that it keeps the entire system lubricated, which provides protection from acids and other dangers. A dry mouth will take that defense away and make your children more prone to oral health issues. Experiencing this symptom for a day or two could merely be dehydration, but extended bouts are cause for concern.
Discoloration
Lastly, we have discoloration. This issue affects the teeth and the gums, both of which can cause long-term damage. If you notice strange coloring in your child’s mouth, it is time to set up an appointment with a professional.
You should not only take your child to the dentist when a major problem arises. It is in their best interests to visit a pediatric dentist on a regular basis to ensure their oral health is monitored. In this way, minor problems can be caught before they turn into major problems. To set up an appointment, give us a call today at (314) 862-7844!