Most babies start growing teeth between the ages of six and twelve months. Teeth should be cared for as soon as they appear. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children go for their first dental appointment before their first birthday. This will help keep your child's teeth as healthy as possible from an early age. Below, we look at some of the most common dental disorders in children and what to look out for. When your child needs dental care in Gilbert, AZ, contact Higley Dental Care. Cavities Cavities form when plaque accumulates on the surface of the teeth, resulting in tooth decay. Brushing and flossing your child's teeth regularly is the most effective way to prevent cavities. You can reduce your child's chances of needing fillings by teaching him or her proper brushing practices. Pediatric Gingivitis Pediatric gingivitis and gum disease are more widespread than you might think. If your child's gums start bleeding during brushing or are red and swollen, gingivitis may be the cause. This condition can lead to gum disease, which can cause sunken gums, pain, and swelling. As with cavities, the best strategy to prevent gingivitis/gum disease is to brush and floss regularly. Bad Breath Halitosis, more commonly known as bad breath, affects everyone on occasion. Bad breath is produced by the buildup of bacteria in the mouth, which feeds on leftover food and plaque and produces odorous hydrogen sulfide. Dry mouth, poor dental hygiene, digestive issues, and even some medications can all cause halitosis. The majority of cases of bad breath can be avoided with proper oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist. Thumb Sucking Using a pacifier and thumb-sucking are perfectly natural self-soothing habits for babies and children. However, if your child continues to thumb-suck after the age of four or when their baby teeth erupt, it can be detrimental to their jaw and tooth development. These concerns are influenced by how frequently and forcefully your child sucks their thumb, although front tooth misalignment and palate deformation are the most common disorders that require dental and orthodontic therapy to correct. Pediatric Dental Care in Gilbert, AZ At Higley Dental Care, we are here to help your whole family keep their smile healthy, no matter their age. Our dedicated Gilbert dentist office team is committed to providing thorough and personalized care to ensure you have a great experience at our office. We invite you to schedule your next dental appointment in Gilbert by calling  480-568-1343  to connect with our friendly staff.