What to Expect When Your 6 Year Old Has Wisdom Teeth: Tips and Advice
As your child reaches the age of 6, you might be surprised to learn that they could already have wisdom teeth growing in their mouth. While wisdom teeth typically don’t emerge until later in adolescence or early adulthood, some children develop these teeth at a younger age. In this article, we’ll explore what you can expect when your 6 year old has wisdom teeth and provide some tips and advice for managing their care.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, usually emerge between the ages of 17 to 25. However, in some cases, they can emerge as early as age 6. Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth and are usually the last teeth to emerge. Most people have four wisdom teeth, two on the top and two on the bottom. However, some people may have more or fewer.
Why Do Some Children Develop Wisdom Teeth Early?
There is no clear answer as to why some children develop wisdom teeth early. It may be due to genetics or other factors such as diet or environment. Early development of wisdom teeth is not considered harmful. However, it is important to monitor your child’s oral health as wisdom teeth can cause several problems if not cared for properly.
What Problems Can Wisdom Teeth Cause in Children?
Wisdom teeth can cause various problems in children, such as:
- Crowding: Wisdom teeth can push other teeth out of position, causing crowding and misalignment of teeth.
- Pain and Discomfort: The emergence of wisdom teeth can cause pain, discomfort, and jaw stiffness.
- Cavities: Wisdom teeth are often difficult to reach and clean, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Infection: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap food and bacteria, increasing the risk of infection and inflammation.
How Can You Manage Wisdom Teeth in Children?
If your child develops wisdom teeth at an early age, there are several things you can do to manage them:
- Monitor your child’s oral health regularly: Keep an eye out for any signs of discomfort or pain in your child’s mouth. Schedule regular visits to the dentist to monitor your child’s oral health.
- Encourage good oral hygiene: Make sure your child brushes and flosses regularly to keep their teeth and gums healthy. Consider using a mouthwash to reduce bacteria in the mouth.
- Use pain relief measures: If your child experiences pain or discomfort, you can use over-the-counter pain relief medication or apply a cold compress to the affected area to help alleviate symptoms.
- Consider extraction: In some cases, wisdom teeth may need to be extracted if they are causing significant pain or damage to other teeth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while it may be surprising to learn that your 6 year old has wisdom teeth, it is not uncommon. Wisdom teeth can cause various problems in children, but with proper oral care and monitoring, these issues can be managed effectively. If you have any concerns about your child’s oral health, speak to your dentist for advice and guidance.
