Tooth decay hurts and can affect young children’s ability to talk, eat, sleep, play, smile, and grow. The good news is it’s also highly preventable. Concerned about some red light behaviors you’re seeing? The root cause just might be a tooth problem. Remember, children often won’t tell you about tooth pain unless you specifically ask.
Here are some warning signs of tooth problems in children to watch for:
- Not eating.
- Having a hard time drinking hot or cold beverages.
- Not sleeping.
- Unable to focus and learn.
- Inability to focus on play.
- Speech problems.
- Irritation and frustration for no apparent reason.
- Not smiling and laughing.
- Fever and facial swelling.
- Failure to thrive; not hitting key developmental milestones.
- Missed days.
If you see any of these red flags, it’s time for a visit to the dentist or doctor. Ensure children’s teeth are protected by brushing them two times a day with a children’s toothbrush topped with children’s fluoride toothpaste. Use a smear of fluoride toothpaste the size of a grain of rice until age three and a pea-sized amount for children ages three to six years old. Remember: Adults brush, children help!
