In my previous column, I briefly discussed the significance of milk teeth and proper brushing habits from an early age. Click the link to follow. In this article, let me tell you about those bad habits that can damage your kid’s teeth.
Sweets and Thumb Sucking in Kids
Sweets can harm your kid’s teeth a lot
No doubt, sweets are the main villains of our teeth. But it doesn’t mean we should never give candies, toffees and cakes to kids. Clean his mouth and teeth properly once he eats sweets. But one should avoid those items that cause severe damage to teeth. Avoid buying sticky-type candies for your kid. Also, brightly coloured sweets cause permanent damage to his teeth and affect their health. So, advise him to keep away from colourful and sticky items. Also, teach him proper brushing habits from a younger age.
Thumb sucking can develop many dental defects in future
Another bad habit most common in kids is thumb sucking. Some kids continue the habit till he reaches four or five. It can damage his teeth also. Those kids who have a habit of thumb sucking might develop many dental defects in future. Thumb sucking is a habit most common in babies, and as he grows up, he gives up that habit. But if he continues so, it may affect the structure and teeth growth of the oral cavity. His plaque may budge out. Also, the teeth of the upper row budge out while the teeth of the lower row grow towards the tongue. This causes the socket to come out, where the teeth are placed. If plaque loses its original position, it may be difficult to restore it to its original position through given proper dental care later.
Tongue biting – Another bad habit of kids
Tongue biting causes the teeth of the upper row to come out while pushing the lower row teeth downwards. Since a gap is formed between these two rows, the kid may find it difficult to bite and chew food. Some kids have a bad habit of pushing their teeth out using their tongue. Grinding the teeth and sleeping with the mouth open can also cause defective teeth and misshapen jaws.
Nail biting is a common habit among kids, and he may not easily give up even after he turns older. It’s the duty of parents to take care of these bad habits of their kids during the early stage before it needs dental attention.
Now, a few tips to get rid of thumb sucking in kids
1. When he starts that habit, try to divert his attention towards toys. Keep him engaged in some sort of activity always.
2. Kids love the presence of parents always, and their absence may make them anxious. To comfort themselves and get rid of anxiety, they may make thumb sucking a habit. Never allow him to sit alone, and most importantly, spend more time with him.
3. Use finger covers before he is put to sleep. Otherwise, wrap his fingers with cloth or use glows.
4. Always remember, if he continues this habit for a long time, many dental defects can develop in future, such as protruding teeth, alteration of tooth structure, etc.
Image source: Pixabay
Also read a few more topics on dental care. Click on the images in the gallery to read
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