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17
.
When does thumb-sucking become damaging to the teeth?
Generally, if the child has stopped sucking his/her thumb by age 5
there is no permanent damage. If the child is a vigorous and constant
thumbsucker, however, there can be moderate to severe movement of teeth
and prevention of normal bone growth.
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18
.
Should my child wear a mouthguard while playing sports?
It is strongly recommended that children wear a mouthguard while
playing any contact sport. It is always better to prevent an injury
than to repair one. The earlier a child begins to wear the mouthguard,
the easier it is to become comfortable and continue to wear it as they
get older.
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19
.
What should I do if my child gets a tooth knocked out?
If the tooth is a permanent tooth, time is extremely crucial.
Immediately stick the tooth back in the socket. Don't worry about
getting it in straight or having it turned backwards, just get it in
the socket and immediately call your dentist. If you are uncomfortable
placing the tooth in the socket, put it in a glass of milk and get your
child to the dentist as quickly as possible. If the tooth is a baby
tooth, do not put it in the socket because damage to the permanent
tooth can occur. When in doubt, put the tooth in milk and see your
dentist immediately.
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20
.
What causes gum disease?
Gum (periodontal) disease is caused by bacteria. These bacteria, if
left along the gumline, will irritate the gums and cause an
inflammation reaction. The gums then begin to bleed and swell allowing
the bacteria to go deeper under the gumline. If the inflammation is
allowed to continue, the bone will begin to demineralize and dissolve.
As the bone dissolves around the teeth, the teeth become unsupported
and will fall out. Unfortunately, pain does not occur until the final
stages of the disease and treatment at that time has very little chance
of being successful. If your gums bleed regularly, seek treatment as
soon as possible.
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