Poor Oral Health In Children Has Many Consequences
It is critical that every child receive oral health care. A failure to protect a child's, mouth, teeth, and gums does not just come with cosmetic concerns. The problems associated with poor oral care are widespread. Learn what is possibly at stake so that you can do everything in your power to protect your child.
Academic Progression
Academic success requires more than just showing up, it also requires full engagement on the part of the child. When a child's oral health needs are not being met, they are at an increased risk for cavities, decay, and overall oral pain. This discomfort is often enough to keep the child from focusing in the classroom, and in some instances, may warrant absence from school. The better your child's oral health, the more they can focus and progress in school.
Self Confidence
Unfortunately, a tendency to compare yourself to others is not something adults hold exclusively; children are at equal risk. Children with severe decay, tooth loss, or other conditions impacting the beauty of their smile may feel different from their peers, which can affect their confidence. Reduced confidence can lead to several issues both socially and academically. Preserve the beauty of your child's smile with proper care both at home and at the hands of the health professional with routine office visits.
Speech Development
It is important to remember that speech and tooth structure are closely related. Sound formation is heavily dependent on the placement of your teeth, so when one tooth is missing, it can be hard to pronounce certain words. For children in the early stages of language development, this issue can be detrimental. Pediatric tooth loss is largely linked to severe decay, which can be controlled with good oral hygiene and regular cleanings and exams at the dental office.
Proper Diet
Proper tooth structure also plays a role in your ability to eat, in particular, nutrient-rich foods like raw fruits and vegetables. A missing tooth can make it impossible to bite into foods like apples or carrots. When your child has to limit their diet, it puts them at risk for some nutritional deficiencies that can further harm their oral health, such as vitamin D deficiency. Keep your child's teeth healthy so that they can continue to follow a healthy diet that will only further boost their oral health.
If you have concerns about your child's oral health needs, do not hesitate to speak with a pediatric dental care service professional for assistance.
Share