At Kids World Pediatric Dentistry, we know that ages 5 to 12 are a crucial time for your child’s oral health. As baby teeth begin to fall out and permanent teeth emerge, proper dental care is essential to ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles. Dr. Torres DDS and our caring team provide specialized treatments to prevent cavities, monitor tooth development, and address orthodontic concerns early.
What to Expect as Your Child’s Teeth Develop
During this stage, your child will:
✔ Lose baby teeth as permanent teeth grow in
✔ Begin flossing with supervision
✔ Potentially show early signs of orthodontic concerns
At each visit, Dr. Torres DDS will evaluate your child’s oral health, provide professional cleanings, and offer guidance on proper brushing, flossing, and dietary habits to keep their smile healthy.
Signs Your Child Needs a Dental Visit
Even if your child has regular checkups, certain signs may indicate a need for an earlier appointment:
✔ Tooth pain or sensitivity: This could indicate a cavity or enamel erosion.
✔ White, brown, or dark spots on teeth: These are often early signs of decay.
✔ Bleeding or swollen gums: This could be a sign of gingivitis, often caused by plaque buildup.
✔ Persistent bad breath: If brushing doesn’t help, it may indicate bacteria buildup or an underlying issue.
✔ Difficulty chewing or avoiding certain foods: This could mean there’s discomfort from a developing tooth or cavity.
✔ Crowded, overlapping, or crooked teeth: This may indicate early orthodontic concerns that should be monitored.
✔ Lip and/or tongue ties: Tethered tissues could contribute to picky eating, gassiness, reflux, speech.
✔ Teeth grinding (bruxism): Bruxism in children can be and indication of airway concerns, Dr Torres will be able to evaluate and refer if necessary.
When to Consider Orthodontic Spacers
Orthodontic spacers (or space maintainers) help guide permanent teeth into their correct position if baby teeth fall out too early. Dr. Torres DDS may recommend spacers if:
✔ Your child loses a baby tooth too soon due to decay or injury.
✔ Teeth are shifting or tilting before a permanent tooth is ready to come in.
✔ There isn’t enough space for permanent teeth to erupt properly.
✔ Crowding or bite alignment issues begin to appear.
Early orthodontic intervention can prevent future dental complications and reduce the need for extensive treatments later on. If you notice any of these signs, schedule an evaluation with Dr. Torres DDS to determine if spacers or other early orthodontic treatments are needed.
Book Your Child’s Appointment with Dr. Torres DDS
Ensuring strong, healthy teeth during the 5 to 12-year-old phase sets the foundation for a beautiful, lasting smile. Whether it’s time for a routine cleaning, cavity check, or an orthodontic evaluation, our team at Kids World Pediatric Dentistry is here to help!
Call us today at (210) 787-1200
