HOW OFTEN WILL I NEED TO VISIT THE DENTIST DURING INVISALIGN TREATMENT?

At Dr. Kammath’s Pediatric Dental Clinic, we know that parents want to understand the commitment involved in Invisalign treatment for their children. Regular dental visits are an integral part for ensuring the best possible outcome with Invisalign, as they allow us to monitor your child’s progress and make any necessary changes along the way. Generally, children undergoing Invisalign treatment should expect to visit our clinic approximately every 6 to 8 weeks. These appointments are important for several reasons. During each visit, our dental team will check how well your child’s teeth are moving, ensure the aligners are fitting properly, and provide the next sets of aligners needed for the upcoming phase of treatment. These check-ups are typically brief and comfortable, but they play a crucial role in keeping the treatment on track. In between these dental visits, your child will change to a new set of aligners every 1 to 2 weeks, as per the direction of our team. This gradual progression is essential for safely and effectively guiding the teeth into their desired positions. Consistently wearing the aligners i.e., 20 to 22 hours per day-is very important in achieving the best results within the estimated treatment timeline. The overall duration of Invisalign treatment for children can vary, typically ranging from 6 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the dental issue and how closely your child follows the recommended wear schedule. Regular check-ups help us to catch any potential issues early and help us in providing guidance if your child is facing difficulty. If you have concerns between scheduled visits-such as lost or damaged aligners-you can contact us. We are here to support your child’s smile journey every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and successful experience.

ARE THERE ANY RISKS OR SIDE EFFECTS FOR THE LASER TONGUE TIE PROCEDURE?

At Dr. Kammath’s Pediatric Dental Clinic, we understand that parents want the safest and most effective treatment for their children. Laser tongue tie release, also known as laser frenectomy, is a modern, minimally invasive procedure designed to correct tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) by gently releasing the restrictive band of tissue under the tongue. While this procedure is generally considered safe and offers several advantages over traditional surgical methods, it is important to be aware of potential risks and side effects. Laser tongue tie release is typically associated with less bleeding, reduced risk of infection, and a faster recovery compared to traditional techniques. Most children experience only mild discomfort or irritation immediately after the procedure, which usually resolves within a few days. The use of a laser also minimizes trauma to surrounding tissues, making the process more comfortable for young patients. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are some risks and possible side effects, though they are rare. These may include: Minor bleeding during or after the procedure, which usually stops quickly. Slight swelling or tenderness in the treated area, which can usually be easily managed with basic aftercare measures. Temporary fussiness or irritability in infants and young children. Excessive drooling or mild oral muscle discomfort for a few days post-procedure. In rare cases, there may be scarring, reattachment of the tissue (requiring a repeat procedure), or minor infection. Extremely rare but more serious complications reported include breathing difficulties, significant bleeding, or damage to nearby structures. These are very uncommon, especially when the procedure is performed by an experienced pediatric dentist. At Dr. Kammath’s Pediatric Dental Clinic, our team follows strict protocols and uses advanced laser technology to ensure your child’s safety and comfort throughout the procedure. We provide detailed aftercare instructions and are always available to address any concerns during the healing process. If you have more questions or would like to discuss whether laser tongue tie release is right for your child, please contact our clinic for a personalized consultation.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD MY CHILD VISIT A PEDIATRIC DENTAL DOCTOR FOR CHECKUPS?

At Dr. Kammath’s Pediatric Dental Clinic, we recommend that children visit a pediatric dentist every six months for regular check-ups and professional cleanings. This biannual schedule follows the guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and is widely supported by dental experts. Regular visits every six months allow us to carefully monitor your child’s oral health, catch any potential issues early, and provide preventive care to keep their teeth and gums healthy. The first dental visit should take place when your child’s one year or within six months after their first tooth appears. Early dental visits help your child become comfortable in a dental setting and give parents the opportunity to learn about proper oral hygiene, diet, and habits that promote strong, healthy teeth. During each check-up, our team will thoroughly examine your child’s teeth, gums, and bite, and may take X-rays if needed to detect problems that are not visible to the naked eye. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar build-up that regular brushing and flossing might miss, helping to prevent cavities and gum disease. We also make use of the appointments to provide guidance on brushing, flossing, nutrition, and habits such as thumb-sucking or teeth grinding. For some children, such as those with a higher risk of tooth decay, orthodontic concerns, or special health care needs; more frequent visits may be recommended to ensure optimal oral health. Our team will tailor the check-up schedule to your child’s individual needs accordingly. Regular dental check-ups are an essential part of maintaining your child’s oral health and building lifelong habits for a healthy smile. If you have questions about your child’s dental care or need to schedule an appointment, please contact Dr. Kammath’s Pediatric Dental Clinic. We are committed to supporting your child’s overall oral health at every stage of their growth.

HOW CAN A SPECIALIST IN PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY HELP WITH MY CHILD’S DENTAL DEVELOPMENT?

At Dr. Kammath’s Paediatric Dental Clinic, we understand that your child’s dental development is a journey that requires specialized care and attention. Paediatric dentists are uniquely trained to guide children through every stage of oral growth, from the eruption of their first tooth through adolescence. Specialized Expertise for Growing Smiles Paediatric dentists complete extra years of specialized training after dental school, concentrating on the distinct dental requirements of infants, children, and adolescents. This specialized education equips them to understand the complexities of developing teeth and jaws, as well as the behavioural aspects of treating young patients. They are skilled at communicating with children in age-appropriate ways, making dental visits less intimidating and more positive. Early Detection and Prevention A key role of a paediatric dentist is to monitor your child’s oral development and identify issues early, such as misaligned teeth, bite problems, or cavities. Early detection allows timely interventions that can prevent more serious issues in the future. Paediatric dentists also provide preventive treatments like dental sealants and fluoride applications, which help protect your child’s teeth from decay. Education and Habit Formation Paediatric dentists place a strong emphasis on educating both children and parents about proper oral hygiene, nutrition, and habits that support healthy dental development. By instilling good oral care routines early, they help lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Comprehensive and Individualized Care Every child is unique, and paediatric dentists tailor their approach to each patient’s specific needs, whether it’s managing early childhood habits like thumb-sucking, addressing orthodontic concerns, or providing guidance during the transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth. Their child-friendly environment and gentle techniques help build trust and reduce dental anxiety, ensuring a positive experience at every visit. By partnering with a paediatric dental specialist at Dr. Kammath’s Paediatric Dental Clinic, you give your child the best chance for healthy dental development, early problem detection, and a confident, lasting smile.

WHAT SERVICES CAN I EXPECT FROM A PEDIATRIC DENTIST IN TRIVANDRUM?

At Dr. Kammath’s Paediatric Dental Clinic in Trivandrum, you can expect a comprehensive range of dental services specifically tailored for children, from infants to teenagers. Our clinic is dedicated to providing high-quality care in a child-friendly environment, ensuring that every visit is comfortable and positive for both children and their parents | PREVENTIVE CARE AND EARLY INTERVENTION- Our clinic emphasizes preventive dentistry, which includes regular dental check-ups, professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants to protect your child’s teeth from cavities. We also focus on infant oral health care, helping parents understand how to care for their child’s teeth from the very beginning | RESTORATIVE AND SPECIALIZED TREATMENTS- If your child develops cavities or other dental issues, we offer restorative treatments such as fillings, dental crowns, and paediatric endodontics (root canal treatments for children). We also provide early age orthodontics and myofunctional appliances to address bite problems and guide proper jaw development | BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT AND COMFORT- Understanding that children may feel anxious about dental visits, our clinic features themed treatment rooms, a dedicated play area, and the use of laughing gas (nitrous oxide) for relaxation during procedures. Our team is trained in child psychology and behaviour management, ensuring that each child receives gentle and compassionate care | HABIT CORRECTION AND GUIDANCE- We assist with habit-breaking appliances for issues like thumb-sucking and teeth grinding, helping to prevent long-term dental problems. Our team also provides education on proper oral hygiene, nutrition, and healthy habits that support lifelong dental health | ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY AND FACILITIES- Dr. Kammath’s Paediatric Dental Clinic is equipped with modern dental technology, including digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and digital impressions. Our clinic offers Conscious Sedations, a technique that uses medications to induce a relaxed, calm state in children while they remain awake, able to respond to verbal commands, and maintain their ability to breathe on their own. Another method is Oral Sedation which is used to help children feel less anxious, more comfortable and stay still during the dental procedures. In conclusion, at Dr. Kammath’s Paediatric Dental Clinic, you can expect a full spectrum of paediatric dental services-from preventive care and specialized treatments to advanced technology and a welcoming atmosphere-ensuring your child’s dental development is in expert hands.

WHEN SHOULD I SCHEDULE MY CHILDS FIRST DENTAL VISIT?

Regular dental visits should be a part of every child’s oral health care with the First Dental Visit being scheduled by the time the child is 12 months of age or by six months of the appearance of his / her first tooth. From the very first examination, the pediatric dentist will thoroughly check the child’s teeth, gums, jaws, bite, and oral tissues to check growth and development and guide the parents on how to care for the child’s teeth.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD MY CHILD HAVE A DENTAL CHECKUP?

As a broad guideline, it is recommended that the child visits the dentist at least once every six months for a routine dental checkup. Routine dental examinations help the dentist in adopting preventive measures for any oral health issues that may not have been noticeable to the layman eye. Regular dental checkups also help in dental cleanings and flouride treatments that inhibit tooth decay and add to the strength of the teeth and supporting structures. If signs of decay or other oral health issues have already developed, the dentist may advise more frequent visits in order to put a stop to any further damage.

WHAT CAUSES CAVITIES IN CHILDREN?

Cavities are holes caused in the tooth enamel when buildup of dental plaque or tartar causes decay. Reasons why some children have a higher risk of developing cavities include consumption of sugary foods and starches leading to growth of oral bacteria, poor dental hygiene, defects in the dental enamel such as enamel hypoplasia , and mouth breathing which results in dryness in the mouth. Toddlers who are put to bed with a bottle of milk or breastfeed during the night are also at risk of developing dental cavities. Good oral hygiene practices from the time the first tooth erupts and regular dental checkups can go a long way in preventing cavities.

HOW CAN I HELP MY CHILD AVOID CAVITIES?

Establishing and maintaining good oral hygiene practices is key to ensuring that the child’s teeth remain healthy and free from tooth decay and cavities. Poor oral hygiene encourages the growth of bacteria which causes buildup of plaque and tartar in the mouth and eventually leads to cavities and caries. It is also important to monitor the child’s diet to ensure that it has the right amount of nutrition and to limit the consumption of snacks and sugary foods

DOES PEDIATRIC TEETH REQUIRE TREATMENT?

Children are prone to various oral health issues including tooth decay, cavities and caries. Contrary to popular belief, damage or decay caused to milk teeth does not go away when the teeth fall out. Instead the decay carries on to the permanent teeth that come later on and can cause discomfort, pain and embarrassment to the child if not treated on time. The child should visit a pediatric dentist at least every six months in order to ensure that potential dental problems are discovered and treated early.

WHAT IS INFANT ORAL HEALTH CARE?

Infant oral health care is the process of carrying for the teeth of babies up to the age of 12 months. Since babies are not in a position to take care of their oral health on their own, the parent or caregiver should check for decay on the outside and inside surfaces of the infant’s gums and teeth at least once a month by lifting the baby’s lips . At the time of tooth eruption, the baby can experience soreness or swollen gums. Using a clean finger and a damp cotton ball, the baby’s gums should be lightly massaged to aid tooth eruption. From the time the baby’s first tooth erupts, the baby’s teeth should be cleaned using a soft toothbrush specifically made for infants.

WHAT IS PULPECTOMY (BABY ROOT CANAL TREATMENT) IN CHILDREN?

If the child’s primary tooth is damaged or diseased considerably with the decay seeping to the tooth pulp , a baby root canal treatment or pulpectomy will be recommended by the pediatric dentist. The procedure is usually carried out by a pediatric endodontist who removes the damaged part of the nerves and pup tissues , sterilizes the area, seals up the gap that is created before placing a crown over the tooth for protection. Performing a baby root canal treatment helps to protect and maintain the remaining root structure of the primary tooth as well as the gums, tissues and bones supporting the structure. This also helps to prevent infection and ensure that the permanent tooth that replaces the current primary tooth remains healthy.

WHAT IS EARLY AGE ORTHODONTIC CORRECTION IN CHILDREN?

Early age orthodontic correction treatment is required by children whose permanent teeth do not come through correctly or may be misaligned, causing concerns of crowding, gaps between teeth, crooked teeth, narrowing of the jaw, or protruding teeth . Correction of these oral issues is required not just from an aesthetic point of view. Malocclusion and improper growth can cause complications with bite, chewing of food, speech and respiratory issues. Generally, orthodontists recommend that children be brought in for a consultation by around six to seven years of age so that both the parents and the orthodontist have an idea of what treatment may be needed and what measures can be taken to prevent oral issues in the future.

ARE DENTAL X-RAYS SAFE FOR KIDS?

Pediatric Dentists may advise taking dental x-rays as part of the child’s routine dentist visit or before an in-depth procedure, in order to accurately study the parts of the patient’s teeth and jaw bone that are not visible to the naked eye. Issues with tooth eruption, oral decay, jawbone damage, or other dental problems can be correctly assessed and interventions can be planned with the help of dental X-rays. Parents are often concerned that X-ray radiation may be harmful to the child. Digital x-ray technology that is used in Pediatric Dentistry emits minimal radiation that is not harmful to children. Even then, dental X-rays are advised by the Pediatric Dentist only when there is an actual need to see an area of the mouth that cannot be examined otherwise.

WHAT ARE DENTAL SEALANTS?

Dental sealants are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of premolars or molars to protect them from cavities and tooth decay. They are a preventive measure and can be applied to healthy teeth of children as soon as they erupt so that the teeth are protected from future damage through dental decay. The need for dental sealant on the back teeth arises because these teeth have deep grooves on them where plaque is likely to accumulate, causing corrosion of the teeth' enamel. They are different from dental fillings which are a restorative treatment that is used to cover holes created by cavities after the cavities form.

WHY ARE FLUORIDE TREATMENTS IMPORTANT FOR KIDS?

Fluoride treatment is an important ally in your child’s fight against cavities . In addition to brushing twice a day and flossing to keep the teeth clean, it is important to have regular dental checkups with a Pediatric Dentist. During the routine dental visit, the Pediatric Dentist will advise fluoride treatment involving the application of topical fluoride to the child’s teeth. Fluoride treatment penetrates the dental enamel making it stronger and protecting it against corrosion from acids released from food, especially sugars and starches. Fluoride also works to reverse the effects of early dental decay and promotes remineralization of the enamel . The treatment gets over in a few minutes and is easy and painless.

HOW IMPORTANT IS A BALANCED DIET IN PREVENTING DENTAL DECAY?

To protect your teeth and gums and maintain good oral health, a balanced diet is just as important as brushing twice a day, flossing, and going for regular dental checkups. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet that includes whole grains, proteins, vegetables, fruits, and calcium-rich foods gives the body the power to protect itself and resist infections. Lack of nutrients can reduce your body’s ability to shield itself against infections that can cause gingivitis and periodontal disease. Some foods like sugary foods, aerated drinks, and starches can also have an adverse effect on your teeth and gums by corroding the dental enamel and causing dental caries or tooth decay.

WHAT IS CONSCIOUS SEDATION? WHY IS IT USED FOR CHILDREN?

Pediatric Conscious Sedation is an emerging trend in Pediatric Dentistry where sedation is used during dental procedures to keep the child relaxed and calm while breathing normally and being able to respond to conversation. The sedation is proven to be especially effective in children who have a high level of anxiety about dental care and procedures, children with special needs, or children who find it difficult to sit still for a specified period. At Dr. Kammath’s Pediatric Dental Care, we use nitrous oxide-oxygen inhalation sedation , which is one of the safest sedative treatments in pediatric sedation dentistry. It has an early onset and the effect of the sedation wears off almost immediately.

IS THUMB SUCKING HARMFUL FOR MY CHILD'S TEETH?

Thumb sucking is a natural habit in small babies just as they tend to put their toys and other objects into their mouth till around 3-4 years of age after cessation of breastfeeding, and most of them grow out of it very soon. However, when active and persistent thumb sucking occurs over a long period of time, it can cause damage to the baby’s primary teeth as well as misalignment of the child’s permanent teeth. Thumb sucking can impact the shape of the roof of the mouth and the jaw causing issues like an overbite or other bite misalignments, sensitivity of the roof of the mouth, can affect speech patterns such as developing a lisp, and cause difficulty in chewing or swallowing food.

Is Thumb Sucking Harmful For My Child's Teeth?

Thumb sucking is a natural habit in small babies just as they tend to put their toys and other objects into their mouth till around 3-4 years of age after cessation of breastfeeding, and most of them grow out of it very soon. However, when active and persistent thumb sucking occurs over a long period of time, it can cause damage to the baby’s primary teeth as well as misalignment of the child’s permanent teeth. Thumb sucking can impact the shape of the roof of the mouth and the jaw causing issues like an overbite or other bite misalignments, sensitivity of the roof of the mouth, can affect speech patterns such as developing a lisp, and cause difficulty in chewing or swallowing food.

WHAT IS DENTAL FILLING?

Dental fillings are part of a restorative dental treatment to preserve teeth that have a hole or cavity or have developed chips or cracks. During a dental filling, the bacteria causing tooth decay are removed with a thorough cleaning before the cavity is filled. This helps to stop the cavity from growing further or causing further decay. Fillings are also useful for repairing and restoring functioning in teeth that have been broken or have developed cracks and improving the appearance of the teeth. Dental fillings can also be safely done for children’s teeth with minimal pain or discomfort. Generally, composite or tooth-coloured fillings are used for pediatric dental fillings. It is best to correct damage caused by cavities and other factors early on using dental fillings so that future dental complications and decay can be stopped effectively.

HOW CAN I HELP MY CHILD WITH BRACES MAINTAIN GOOD ORAL HYGIENE?

The ideal time for dental braces is once the permanent teeth have set in, which could be as early as 10-12 years. At that age, children may not be able to care for their dental braces on their own, and guidance from the parents is essential to ensure proper oral hygiene and health. Dental braces can become sanctuaries for food debris which can cause plaque buildup, cavities, and other forms of dental decay. You can help your child maintain good oral hygiene by instructing him/her on the right technique to brush teeth and holding the toothbrush at a 45° angle to clean near the wires and brackets effectively. Electric toothbrushes may be more efficient in removing food debris around braces with less effort. Flossing while wearing braces can be a laborious process and children may be inclined to skip it so they may need to be motivated to get it done. Using a fluoride mouthwash after brushing and flossing may also be beneficial in keeping teeth and gums healthy. You can also ensure that your child has regular dental checkups so the pediatric dentist can identify dental issues early.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY CHILD HAS BAD BREATH?

The most common reason for bad breath in children is due to poor oral hygiene habits. Children who do not brush their teeth in the correct manner twice a day and follow it up with flossing at night tend to have food debris and bacteria in their mouth which cause buildup of tartar and plaque. The bacteria can not just cause cavities and tooth decay, it can also cause your child to develop bad breath. Therefore, it is important to ensure that your child maintains good oral hygiene as part of his / her daily routine. However, there can be other reasons for bad breath in children, including tongue coating, mouth breathing, dental infections, and gum disease, enlarged tonsils, or sinus infections. During regular dental checkups, the pediatric dentist will be able to assess whether the bad breath should be treated with dental interventions or a pediatrician must be consulted to check on other causes.

When Should a Child Meet a Pediatric Dentist First?

A child’s first pediatric visit is an important step in their oral health journey. It is recommended that the child visit a pediatric dentist by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth erupts, whichever happens earlier. You might be wondering why early visits are important. Visiting a pediatric dentist early allows for the monitoring of your child's dental and jaw development. This will help the parents to ensure that their teeth grow correctly. Pediatric dentists advise parents on how to maintain their child's oral health. They demonstrate effective brushing techniques, encourage healthy eating habits, and provide tips for soothing teething pain. Parents are also taught to prevent common dental problems, such as baby bottle tooth decay, which occurs when teeth are exposed to sugary drinks for extended periods. Visiting the dentist early on also helps children feel more at ease at the dental clinics, which can reduce their anxiety and fear of dental visits in the future. Typically, during the first visit, the dentist will perform a gentle examination of the child’s teeth, gums and jaws. They will discuss with the parents how to use the fluoride toothpaste, strategies for maintaining clean teeth, and methods to avoid mouth injuries. The main goal is to ensure a positive experience for the child and the parents, supporting them in achieving good oral health for a lifetime.

Why is it Better to Choose a Pediatric Dentist Than a Regular Dentist?

Choosing a pediatric dentist instead of a regular dentist has several benefits that meet the needs of children. Here are a few reasons why parents should prefer choosing a pediatric dentist over a general dentist for children. Specialized Training Pediatric dentists undergo two or three years of additional training after dental school, which focuses on child psychology, growth, development and the specific anatomy of baby teeth. This trains and equips them to handle complex pediatric dental issues. Child-Friendly Environment Pediatric dental clinics are designed with children in mind, using bright colors, toys, and equipment sized for young patients. This helps reduce anxiety and make the visits more enjoyable. Behavioral Expertise As pediatric dentists are given training in child psychology, which makes them skilled in managing children’s fear, impatience and uncooperative behaviour during exams and procedures, allowing the young patients to have a comfortable experience Specialized Care Visiting a pediatric dentist will be beneficial for both parents and children as they will be able to provide services and counselling on habits like thumb-sucking and pacifier use. They are also experienced in treating children with special needs or developmental needs. Preventive Focus Pediatric dentists focus on preventive care tailored to children’s oral development, such as early orthodontic assessments and fluoride treatments, so that they can monitor their dental growth closely and prevent any issues. Pediatric dentists have expertise and offer an environment specifically designed for children, ensuring that they are comfortable and receive good care. As the child gets older, the parents can transition to a general dentist or family dentist.

Why Are Pediatric Dentists Specially Trained?

Pediatric dentists focus on the dental care of infants, children, and teenagers. Their specialised training helps them manage the growth, behavior, and health needs related to children's oral care. Expertise on Child-Specific Dental Issues: Pediatric dentists are trained to manage issues like spacing for permanent teeth and bite alignment to prevent future complications. Baby teeth or milk teeth have a completely different anatomy compared to adult teeth, as they require specialised procedures after careful evaluation, as they will impact their development. Behavioural and Psychological Training Children often react differently to dental visits than adults. Pediatric dentists use language that is easy for children to understand to teach them about taking care of their teeth. This helps children develop healthy habits that last a lifetime. Specialized Clinic Skills After dental school, pediatric dentists are required to complete their residency focusing on child-specific pharmacology, sedation techniques and advanced treatment methods. They are also prepared to manage emergencies and offer care for children who have special healthcare requirements or disabilities. Child-Friendly Environment Pediatric dental clinics are designed with children in mind. The environment and tools they use foster a friendly environment for kids, guaranteeing an enjoyable experience. Preventive and Comprehensive Care Pediatric Dentists will help emphasize preventive care through regular checkups, fluoride treatments and education for parents and children. They also offer thorough treatment for problems such as cavities, gum diseases, orthodontic issues, and oral injuries. Pediatric dentists receive extensive training to ensure that children receive appropriate care, which supports their physical, emotional, and developmental requirements.

What are common orthodontic problems that can be treated in children?

Orthodontic problems in children are common and can be effectively treated with early intervention. Here are a few of the most common orthodontic issues that are often treated by pediatric dentists: Crowding: It is a common dental issue that occurs when there is insufficient space in the mouth for all teeth to align properly, which leads to overlapping or crooked teeth, making it difficult to clean and increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Treatments: Braces, Invisalign or Expanders to create space and align teeth Spacing Issues: Gaps between teeth can result from missing teeth, small-sized teeth or abnormal jaw growth, which can cause larger gaps that can affect bite function and aesthetics. Treatments: Braces to close the gap Overbite: It can be characterised by excessive overlap of the upper front teeth over the lower front teeth, which can cause difficulties in chewing, speech issues and facial appearance concerns. Treatments: Braces, Headgear or Invisalign Underbite: It occurs when the lower front teeth protrude beyond upper front teeth which results from genetics, thumb sucking or improper jaw growth. Treatments: Braces, Expanders or Jaw Surgery Crossbite It happens when upper teeth are positioned inside lower teeth and when the jaws close, which can lead to uneven tooth wear, gum recession and jaw pain. Treatments: Braces, Expanders or Jaw Surgery if it is very severe Open Bite: When the upper and lower front teeth do not touch when the jaws close, often caused by habits like thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting, which can alter jawbone shape and size if untreated. Treatments: Behavioural Changes and Appliances. Impacted Teeth Teeth fail to erupt properly due to being stuck in the bone. Treatment: Orthodontic intervention to reposition impacted teeth. Respiratory Problems: The persistent mouth breathing can lead to dental deformities and malalignment issues. Treatment: Rapid Palatal Expanders, which can widen the palate and improve airway function. Thumb-Sucking Effects: Prolonged Thumb sucking can cause protrusion of teeth, open bites and other alignment issues. Treatments: The use of specialized appliances can eliminate this habit. Taking your child for early orthodontic check-ups and treatments can improve their oral health. It can also help with their speech, chewing, appearance, and overall confidence.

Can kids get cavities in their baby teeth?

Yes, children can develop cavities in the baby teeth or primary teeth. Cavities, also known as dental caries or tooth decay as it can typically occur around six months of age. Baby teeth are much more susceptible to decay than permanent teeth because bacteria in the mouth can feed on sugars from food and drinks, which produce acids that can erode the enamel. The baby teeth will eventually fall out, which plays an important role in a child’s oral health. Primary teeth help keep space for permanent teeth. This supports chewing, speaking, and overall health. Untreated cavities can cause pain and infections, leading to problems with eating. Severe cavities will also affect the development of permanent teeth or lead to alignment issues if the baby teeth are lost prematurely. The main causes of cavities in baby teeth are due to the consumption of sugary or starchy foods and drinks like candies, juices and milk and lack of proper fluoride use and oral hygiene practices. The signs of cavities in children include white spots near the gum line, discoloration, holes in the tooth, sensitivity to sweets or cold foods, and pain. If you get cavities, you can choose from different treatments like fillings or fluoride applications to prevent further decay.