Parenting can have its ups and downs in terms of concerns regarding the physical and mental development of one’s children. Some of them may be more parental anxiety than anything else. However, there are some concerns that may need to be addressed. A common concern is wondering about reasons for adult teeth not coming in after they have lost their primary (or, baby) teeth. There are some common reasons for adult teeth not coming in and some not-so-common which is why it’s a good idea to talk with your pediatric dentist in Orange County and see what’s going on.
Why are Adult Teeth Not Coming in?
Lack of Space
This is likely one of the most common reasons that your child’s permanent teeth are not coming in. The difference in size between a child’s baby teeth and their permanent teeth is different which means that the permanent ones may just not have enough room to fit. For issues such as this, your child may need braces to move their teeth around and make room for the permanent ones. Before worrying about this, contact your dentist and see if you can wait out the natural process before setting up an appointment with the orthodontist.
Tooth Direction
Another common issue with permanent teeth failing to come in is if the tooth is pointed in the wrong direction. The natural path that the permanent tooth should take is through the same path as the baby tooth. Sometimes this doesn’t happen, and the problem is treated by pulling the primary tooth out in hopes that the permanent tooth is able to adequately drift into the regular path.
Impacted Teeth
Some children may have impacted teeth which prevents permanent teeth from coming in. Impacted teeth are essentially blocked from moving up and settling into the child’s mouth properly. This could be due to the premature loss of their primary teeth or issues with their jaw being too narrow. When the teeth cannot move up, they will stay within the gum area. However, they will continue to develop fully under their gums. If your child’s permanent teeth have not come in and you suspect this may be the issue, contact their dentist. Addressing impacted teeth early can reduce any potential future damage.
Nutrition
As with most health issues, nutrition is a major element. Nutrition can affect the development of your child’s teeth if they are not getting enough of the right nutrients, including vitamins and minerals. Children especially need calcium for the proper development of their adult teeth. Additionally, children who consume a sugar-rich diet can slow down the growth of their permanent teeth. Overall, it’s important for your child to have a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals derived from natural, plant-based foods.
Genetics
It’s likely that your child may experience what you or your partner experienced as a child when it comes to dental health and development. Studies show that there is an eighty-percent chance that your child will develop the same characteristics as you in terms of tooth development. This is something you just can’t control so getting all of the information about your family history is important to be able to address your child’s needs. Share this information when you meet with your child’s dentist so they have all the information necessary for how to treat your child.
Dentists in Orange County
If your child is experiencing any issues with their baby teeth or if their permanent teeth are failing to come in, call O.C. Dental Specialists for an appointment. The team of dental specialists have decades of experience in pediatric dentistry. O.C. Dental Specialists cover a wide array of services, including cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, oral surgery, endodontics, periodontics, and pediatrics. If you and your family need a dentist, contacting O.C. Dental Specialists is a great first step in having better dental health.