February 01, 2026
February is National Children's Dental Health Month, making it the perfect time for parents to focus on habits that protect their child's smile.
Many children's dental problems in Denton—such as cavities, crowding, and oral habits that affect growth—can be prevented with early care and the right routines at home. At Leatherwood Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Leatherwood is passionate about helping children build healthy smiles that last into adulthood.
Call our office today at 940-350-3561 to schedule your child's next dental checkup.
Cavities: The Most Common Childhood Dental Issue
Cavities are one of the most common dental problems in children. Because kids' enamel is thinner and they often enjoy sugary snacks and drinks, their teeth are more vulnerable to decay. Cavities form when bacteria feed on leftover sugars and create acids that weaken tooth enamel.
Parents can help reduce cavity risk by:
Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
Helping young children brush until they have good technique
Encouraging daily flossing
Limiting sugary snacks, juice, and sticky treats
Offering water between meals
Regular dental visits also play a big role. Professional cleanings remove plaque buildup that brushing can miss, and exams help catch small cavities before they become painful problems.
Crowding & Early Bite Issues
As children grow, their baby teeth fall out, and adult teeth move in. Sometimes there isn't enough room in the jaw for adult teeth, which can lead to crowding or bite problems. Crowded teeth are harder to clean and can increase the risk of cavities and gum irritation.
Dr. Leatherwood carefully monitors your child's growth during routine visits. Early detection of spacing or bite concerns allows families to plan ahead and, in some cases, reduce the need for more complex treatment later.
Thumb-Sucking & Pacifier Habits
Thumb-sucking and pacifier use are normal for infants and toddlers, but these habits can cause dental issues if they continue for too long. Prolonged thumb-sucking may lead to:
Front teeth pushing forward
Changes in jaw development
Bite alignment problems
Speech difficulties
Most children naturally outgrow these habits, but if they continue past age 3 or 4, it's a good idea to discuss them with your dentist. Gentle encouragement, positive reinforcement, and age-appropriate strategies can help children break the habit without stress.
Early Gum Problems in Kids
Gum issues aren't just an adult concern. Children can also develop gum inflammation if plaque builds up along the gumline. Red, swollen, or bleeding gums are signs that brushing or flossing may need improvement.
Teaching kids to brush gently along the gums and making flossing part of the daily routine can prevent early gum problems. Regular cleanings help keep gums healthy and comfortable.
Tooth Injuries & Sports Safety
Kids are active, and accidents happen. Falls, playground mishaps, and sports injuries can lead to chipped or knocked-out teeth. Wearing a mouthguard during sports is one of the best ways to prevent dental injuries.
If a dental injury does occur, quick care is important. Dr. Leatherwood and the team are here to help protect your child's smile and guide you through the next steps.
Why Baby Teeth Matter
Some parents think baby teeth aren't important because they eventually fall out, but they play a key role in your child's development. Healthy baby teeth help with chewing, speech development, and holding space for adult teeth. Early dental care helps prevent infections that could affect your child's teeth later on.
Building Healthy Habits at Home
Children learn best by example. Brushing and flossing together as a family, choosing tooth-friendly snacks, and keeping dental visits positive all help kids feel confident about caring for their smiles. Creating a routine makes dental care feel normal and stress-free.
National Children's Dental Health Month is a great reminder to stay proactive about your child's oral health. If you want to prevent children's dental problems in Denton, call Leatherwood Family & Cosmetic Dentistry today at 940-350-3561 to schedule your child's next visit with Dr. Leatherwood.
