It is not uncommon for parents of toddlers and young children to experience pediatric dental emergencies in Markham. As a parent, you always want to do everything to keep your children safe and healthy. By taking some preventative measures, you can help avoid these emergencies.
What is a pediatric dental emergency?
A dental emergency is any condition that compromises the tooth’s structure or causes severe pain or bleeding. Most emergency dentists will handle this type of situation. Even though some dental emergencies are unavoidable, parents should be aware of the following causes :
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Decay
Decay is one of the most common causes of dental emergencies. It can lead to infection and other problems that can cause severe pain and discomfort.
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Eating
Dental emergencies can often be caused by poor food choices. Eating candies and excessive consumption of sugary drinks are bad for the teeth and can cause further damage.
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Accidents
If your child falls and hits their mouth or if something gets stuck in their teeth, they could end up with a serious problem. Ignoring the problem can make the situation worse.
Prevention
The reality of dental emergencies is not as bad as you would think and there are a number of things you can do as a parent to ensure that your children will not have to deal with emergency situations.
1. Teach children how to brush their teeth.
Brushing the teeth should take around 2 minutes for toddlers. They should use a small soft toothbrush that fits in their hands comfortably. In addition to teaching toddlers how to brush their teeth properly, you should also encourage them to use a good amount of toothpaste. Lastly, encourage children to floss if they eat a lot of sugar.
2. Visiting the dentist regularly.
It is vital to get your child used to going to the dentist from an early age. Children usually have their first dental appointment at two years old. You can ask your child’s dentist for tips on keeping their teeth healthy. It is advisable to have your child go to the same dentist that they have grown up with.
3. Avoid food items that pose a risk.
Some foods and drinks cause tooth decay. Avoid giving your child foods and drinks that contain sugar. Their diet should be high in calcium and protein, good for their teeth. Make sure that your children will drink plenty of water throughout the day.
4. Let your child wear mouthguards when they play sports.
Children love sports and being active. Unfortunately, many parents do not realize the importance of mouthguards in protecting their children’s teeth. Sports mouthguards can prevent serious dental injuries, such as cracked teeth and concussions. While children are playing on the field, mouthguards keep them safe.
Takeaway
Emergency dental situations can be expensive, inconvenient, and painful. By following the simple prevention tips mentioned, you can help reduce your child’s risk of experiencing pediatric dental emergencies. If your child needs urgent dental care, don’t hesitate to call your Markham dentist and schedule an appointment. They will be happy to help your child get back to achieving optimal oral health.
