What causes a child under 6 years old to lose teeth, and what should be done?
Apr 26, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
A child under six years old losing teeth may be due to normal primary tooth replacement, genetics, dental trauma, cavities, periodontal disease, or other causes. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. In daily life, it is advisable for children to develop good oral hygiene habits, such as regular tooth brushing and flossing.
Children under the age of 6 losing teeth may be due to normal primary tooth replacement, genetic factors, trauma to baby teeth, dental caries, periodontal inflammation, or other causes. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Normal primary tooth replacement: Children typically begin the process of losing baby teeth around age 6. However, this timeline varies significantly between individuals. Some children may start losing their primary teeth earlier than age 6 due to faster growth and development. This is a normal physiological phenomenon and generally not a cause for concern.
2. Genetics: If parents lost their baby teeth early during childhood, genetic factors may lead to earlier tooth loss in their children. This is considered normal and does not require special intervention.
3. Trauma to primary teeth: During play or physical activity, children may fall or experience impact that injures their baby teeth, leading to premature tooth loss. Parents should promptly take the child to a dentist to assess the extent of injury and receive appropriate treatment. Anti-inflammatory medications such as cefdinir granules, cefaclor granules, or penicillin V potassium tablets may be prescribed as directed by a physician.
4. Dental caries: Frequent consumption of sweets, jelly, and other snacks, combined with poor oral hygiene habits such as infrequent brushing, can promote bacterial growth and lead to tooth decay. When cavities become large, they may cause premature loss of primary teeth, resulting in earlier-than-usual tooth replacement. Prompt dental treatment, such as cavity filling (restorative therapy), is recommended to manage this condition.
5. Periodontal inflammation: Poor oral hygiene and unhealthy dietary habits may contribute to periodontal inflammation. Localized inflammation often presents with symptoms such as swollen, red gums and loose teeth. Without timely treatment, this can result in early loss of baby teeth. Treatment of periodontal disease should follow medical advice and may include antimicrobial medications and professional periodontal cleaning. Medications such as azithromycin tablets, roxithromycin tablets, or hydrogen peroxide solution may be prescribed according to doctor's instructions.
In daily life, children should be encouraged to develop good oral hygiene habits, such as regular toothbrushing and flossing. Consuming calcium-rich foods like milk and soy milk in moderation can also support healthy development of permanent teeth.
