No parent wants to hear that their child has been injured, including when it involves their teeth. Unfortunately, dental injuries are common in children. In fact, by the time children reach their early teenage years, a significant number will have experienced some type of dental trauma. The good news is that understanding why these injuries happen and how to reduce the risks can protect your child’s smile.
Children Are Prone to Dental Injuries
Kids will be kids! Here are some reasons why a child is more prone to dental injuries.
Developing coordination
Young children are still mastering balance and motor skills. As they learn to walk, run, climb, and play, falls are simply part of the process. Teeth are often in the line of impact.
High energy and active play
As adults, we wish we had the’ energy levels of children. They rarely slow down! Whether they’re racing through the backyard, playing tag, or jumping on the couch when they shouldn’t, their enthusiasm at times leads to dental injuries.
Playground and outdoor risks
Who doesn’t appreciate a well-designed playground? They provide hours of fun, but slippery surfaces, crowded play areas, new heights, or improper use of equipment all contribute to possible dental accidents.
Sports and recreational activities
You don’t have play football to get hurt. Biking, skateboarding, trampoline use, and even casual neighborhood sports can lead to dental trauma if a child loses balance or collides with someone else. And the sport that causes the most dental injuries is actually basketball!
Unhealthy Oral habits
Many parents give their babies pacifiers or allow thumb sucking for the purpose of self-soothing and promoting sleep. If children don’t grow out of this phase, front teeth are pushed forward over time, making them more susceptible to injury. (Talk to our Placerville dentists for ideas on how to wean your child from these habits.)
Since children are prone to dental injury, what can you do to help (besides wrapping them in pillows)?
Parents Can Prevent Dental Trauma
Accidents can’t always be avoided, but there are several things you can do to lower the risk of childhood dental trauma.
- Build safe play areas at home and outdoors
- Use helmets, mouthguards, and protective gear
- Maintain a balanced, tooth-healthy diet
- Schedule regular dental checkups
- Encourage eating crunchy foods that develop bone, jaw, and tooth strength
- Identify and address bad oral habits to reduce tooth protrusion
Routine dental visits are especially important for children, as they allow your dentist to identify small concerns before they become larger problems.
Supporting Your Child’s Smile
At the Placerville Dental Group, we understand that dental injuries in children are stressful for parents. We offer emergency dental services when unexpected situations arise. Our team is always happy to answer questions, evaluate parental concerns, and guide families to make choices that maintain the oral health of all family members. When it comes to your child’s smile, you never have to face it alone. Contact us today!
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