It is very difficult for parents to push their children to follow good oral hygiene. Thye love their sugar candies and cannot seem to have enough of them. This paves the way for cavities in children and it can be very painful for them. Additionally, your kids can suffer from other dental complications as well. Therefore, it is very important to prevent cavities in your kids. Our dentists at Joyful smiles have listed down certain tips and tricks which can help you to prevent tooth decay in your children. Your favorite pediatric dentist in Bradley has got your back!
What Is A Cavity?
Before jumping into the other section let us learn what a cavity is. Cavities, most commonly known as dental caries, are usually caused due to the accumulation of plaque. The bacteria present in this plaque erodes the enamel of your child’s tooth. Enamel does not regrow, and this paves the way for dental caries. They form holes in the infected tooth. Initially, your kid might not feel any pain. However, as the infection starts spreading your child will be in a lot of pain and might suffer from other oral health issues as well.
How To Prevent Cavities In Children?
Now let us switch to the tips which you must follow to prevent the risk of dental caries in your kids. Share them with your friends and family as well.
Start Early With A Good Oral Care Routine
It is essential to start early when it comes to a good oral care routine. Healthier teeth during childhood are the key to maintaining healthy teeth during adulthood as well. Make oral care routines a fun ritual for your kids to expect consistency. Brush and floss together or put on your kid’s favorite song during the routine. An early start will ensure perfect oral hygiene and prevent the onset of cavities in the future.
Regulate The Consumption Of Certain Foods & Drinks
You must limit the consumption of certain sugary and sticky food and drinks for your children. These items include cookies, cake, candies, chips, sodas, juices, and even sports drinks. These items contain sugars, starches, and acids. The acid weakens the enamel of your child’s teeth. The bacteria that cause dental cavities feed on the sugar and starch that stick onto your child’s teeth after they consume these items. This makes the perfect breeding ground for cavity-causing bacteria and it is best to reduce their intake. Make sure your children rinse their mouths if they eat these items.
Give Them More Water
Fluoridated water is an all-time friend. Make sure your kids drink enough water throughout the day. This will act as an extra protective layer and also stimulate saliva production. Make sure they hydrate themselves and that would wash out all the bacteria from their mouth. Additionally, it will also take care of the sugars and acids that stick onto your child’s teeth.
Opt For Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is an important element that makes your child’s teeth resistant to decay and strengthens them. Talk to your pediatric dentist in Bradley and go for fluoride treatments for your children. They are applied topically and are extremely effective as a preventive measure. Your dentist might recommend going for fluoride rinses or varnishes depending on your child’s age and oral condition.
There are several areas of your kid’s mouth which they cant reach. This is where dental sealants come in. These are protective coatings that protect your child’s teeth from decay for up to ten years. Consider dental sealants and consult your pediatric dentist in Bradley today.