I am proud to say that I have all my own teeth at the age of 65. While that may not sound unusual to some people, everyone in my family who is my age or older wears dentures. I always tell people that that flossing is the key to good dental health. I have arthritis in my hands, but I don't let it keep me from flossing every day. My trick is to use those little "flossers" you can buy at the drug store. They have plastic handles floss stretched out on top of the handle. These make flossing easier on days when my arthritis is acting up. I started this blog to let other people know that they can keep their teeth healthy into old age when they take care of them. If you have hand pain, find ways to make flossing easier, like I did.
Don't Let Hand Pain Keep You from Flossing
It's Not Always Easy To See: How To Tell When Your Young Child Has Dental Problems
Francis Miles
Children don't always know when to tell you about dental problems. In fact, depending on their age, they might not be able to tell you about dental problems. That's why it's up to you to watch for changes that could point to problems with your child's teeth. If your child begins to exhibit any of the problems listed below, it's time to contact their dentist right away.
Your Child's Tooth Hhas Changed Color
You might not know this, but dental problems, especially infections and decay, can cause teeth to change colors. The infection and decay can cause the affected tooth to turn a darker shade. If you've noticed that your child's tooth has changed color, you'll need to schedule an appointment with their dentist. There could be a dental problem lurking beneath the surface.
Your Child's Appetite Has Changed
If you've noticed a drastic change in your child's appetite, the changes could be related to dental problems. This is particularly true if your child is too young to tell you that there's a problem with their teeth. Dental problems can make it painful for children to chew. When that happens, they may try to avoid eating or the pain might be too severe for them to eat. If your child is refusing to eat or will only eat soft foods, you need to contact their dentist as soon as possible.
Your Child Has Suddenly Developed Bad Breath
Children will occasionally develop bad breath, especially when they don't brush their teeth properly. However, bad breath can also be a sign of dental problems, especially infections and decay. If your child has developed foul-smelling bad breath, and you know they brush their teeth often enough, you should take them to their dentist. The bad breath could be a warning sign that your child has a significant dental problem that will require dental work.
Your Child's Neck Is Swollen
When dental infections become severe, they can lead to increased swelling in the mouth. However, once the infection begins to spread, it can also lead to swelling in the jaw and neck. If you've noticed that your child's jaw or neck is swollen, it's time to take them to the dentist. Your child may have a dental infection that will require treatment.
It's not always easy to tell when children have dental problems, especially when they're not old enough to explain the problem. The information provided here will help you identify dental problems when your child can't tell you about them. For more information, contact local professionals like those found at Dr. Peggy Alvarez-Penabad.
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