No parent wants their child to get a cavity. Although some children are more prone to cavities due to genetics, there are steps to prevent or at least control tooth decay. With regular dental care and proper hygiene early in life, cavities and decay should never be an extreme issue for your child.
1. Hygiene At Home
Start brushing your child's teeth before the first baby tooth ever erupts. Use a finger brush made for rubbing an infant's gums. This gets your child used to brushing, helping to forge the lifelong habit. Once they have teeth, make sure to brush their teeth at least twice a day. Your child can handle some of the brushing, but it's best that you finish the job to make sure every tooth is cleaned. Use a soft-bristled brush and a children's toothpaste.
2. Regular Cleanings
Brushing at home isn't enough. Your child should start visiting the dentist as soon as they have their first tooth. Twice yearly visits are the normal recommendation. At these visits, your dentist can give your child a full checkup, and then thoroughly clean your child's teeth. Cavities can be caught in the early stages so that treatment can prevent them from spreading into developing adult teeth.
3. Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride builds stronger teeth in children, which makes the teeth better able to resist decay. Many cities add fluoride to the water supply, but your dentist may recommend additional treatments if you are on a private water supply or if you live in an area without fluoridation. There are chewable and liquid fluoride options. Your dentist will choose one that is best suited to your child's age.
4. Treat Limits
It's a good idea to limit the number of certain treats. Sugary drinks, including juice, should only be provided occasionally. The same goes for candy, particularly chewy candies or sour candies. Chewy candies can stick to teeth and provide an anchor for cavity-causing bacteria, and the acid in sour candies can weaken tooth enamel. Have your child brush or rinse out their mouth with water after enjoying any sugary treats.
5. Dental Sealants
Another service your dentist can perform is the application of a sealant. Your dentist paints the sealant over the teeth, where it forms a barrier that prevents bacterial growth and plaque. Sealants are especially helpful for children since they may not be able to brush and floss as well as an adult.
Contact a children's dentist for more help.
Share