Mississauga dentist discusses the unique dental care needs for kids

Straight teeth are an important feature of an attractive smile, right up there with teeth that are free of stains. However, as children's teeth are developing they can grow in tilted, sideways, or at a right angle.

If crooked or crowded teeth are not addressed in childhood, problems can become worse. Difficulty cleaning between teeth can cause them to harbour food particles that breed the bacteria responsible for tooth decay and gum disease. Problems associated with the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull can arise. Temporomandibular joint disorders can cause headaches and facial pain, which may affect a child's nutrition, sleep, scholastic performance, and overall quality of life.

These conditions may be remedied with conventional braces, as well as functional orthodontic systems to straighten teeth and reshape the upper and lower jaws for improved comfort, appearance, and mobility.

Invisalign Teen is also an attractive and convenient option to treat a number of alignment and bite issues among younger patients. Teens enjoy the fact that the straightening trays are clear, so their friends don't notice the dental appliances the way they would metal braces. Invisalign trays may be removed for up to 4 hours each day, so it's easier for patients to eat, and brush and floss between and around the teeth and gums.

Your dentist for kids in Mississauga, Dentistry on 10, can effectively and compassionately prevent and treat a number of other conditions associated with younger patients, including:

• Early Childhood Caries – Defined as one or more decayed, missing, or filled tooth surfaces in any child up to age 5. Expectant mothers should regularly visit the dentist for professional cleanings and exams as the bacteria responsible for early childhood caries can be passed from mom to child. Dr. Kotecha can educate parents on good and bad habits; for instance, babies should not be put to bed with bottles full of sugary drinks including fruit juice. Babies should be encouraged to drink from a cup by their first birthday. It's a good idea for both mom and baby to eat their fruit, not drink it. Dr. Kotecha will want to see any baby for the first time before his or her first birthday or within six months of the eruption of the first tooth.
• Decay in school-aged kids – One of the biggest concerns among younger children has to do with the emergence of the first permanent molars around age six or seven. Food can become trapped in these pitted and grooved back teeth. This uneven surface and hard-to-reach location makes it difficult for kids to clean properly. This creates a recipe for bacteria and decay that leads to early tooth loss. Dr. Kotecha may recommend sealants, which are applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth. They create a thin, unobtrusive plastic barrier between the tooth and harmful bacteria.
• Impacted wisdom teeth – Students may develop their third molars as young as age 15. Known as wisdom teeth, many kids' mouths are not able to accommodate these extra teeth. They have to be removed as part of a routine procedure. If left untreated, wisdom teeth can jeopardise the second molars.

Children's dental services are as diverse and varied as the conditions these procedures attempt to treat or stop before they arise in the first place. To experience a better way to treat children's unique needs, schedule an appointment at Dentistry on 10. Call .

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