When it comes to kids’ smiles, every giggle, snack and toothbrush moment counts! The habits your child forms early on can have a lasting impact on their oral health well into adulthood. At Western Smiles Dental Care, our friendly team loves helping families set strong foundations for healthy smiles. Let’s look at some early habits and red flags to watch out for as your child grows.
Tongue Thrust: Why It Matters
Tongue thrusting happens when the tongue pushes against the front teeth while swallowing or speaking. It may seem harmless, but over time, this pressure can cause teeth to move out of alignment, leading to bite issues or speech difficulties. If you notice your child’s tongue poking forward often, it’s worth mentioning at their next dental visit. Early guidance from your Mirrabooka dentist can help manage and correct this habit before it affects their bite.
Mouth Breathing: More Than Just a Quirk
Does your child often sleep with their mouth open or breathe through their mouth during the day? Mouth breathing can dry out oral tissues, increase the risk of cavities, and even affect jaw growth and posture. It might also be linked to allergies or enlarged tonsils. A dental checkup can help identify the cause of the issue and determine whether a specialist referral is needed.
Spotting Early Orthodontic Warning Signs
Even before all the adult teeth come in, early orthodontic issues can appear. Watch for:
- Crowded or crooked baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Thumb or finger sucking past age five
- A jaw that shifts or clicks
Detecting these signs early gives your child the best chance for a straighter smile and easier treatment later on.
Helping Kids Build Healthy Dental Habits
At Western Smiles Dental Care, we aim to make dental visits fun and educational. From showing kids how to brush like pros to spotting subtle growth changes, we focus on prevention and patient education. Encouraging regular checkups, healthy snacks and consistent brushing routines helps turn daily care into a positive habit.
We Welcome Your Call
We believe that healthy smiles can start young and last a lifetime. If you’d like to arrange your child’s next visit or have questions about kids’ and teens’ dental care in Mirrabooka, our team is here to offer our assistance.
We invite you to book an appointment today at Western Smiles Dental Care.