What causes cavities?
Many factors lead to tooth decay. Bacteria plays a large role. All of us have bacteria in our mouths. Colonies of bacteria, when left unchecked, begin to form plaque, a white sticky film comprised of millions of bacteria. When brushing is neglected or not done correctly, plaque begins to coat the teeth more and more. When these bacteria are left unchecked for too long, they produce acids that erode tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is the hard, outer layer of a tooth. When these acids penetrate this outer layer, that’s the start of a cavity, which is actually a small hole in the tooth.
Once a tiny hole is made in the tooth’s enamel, the bacteria can reach deeper into the tooth.
The deeper into the tooth it goes, the easier it gets for the acids to erode more of the tooth’s structure. Once the second layer of the tooth, called the dentin, is affected, pathways to the tooth’s nerve are exposed. That’s how tooth decay can result in a toothache.
Here are 10 tips you can follow to help prevent cavities in your child:
1. Encourage Water Drinking Throughout the Day
Water helps wash away food particles and keeps the mouth moist and balanced. Avoid sugary drinks like soda and sports drinks, and be cautious with juices as they contain high sugar levels and are often acidic, which can feed harmful bacteria in your child's mouth.
2. Opt for Non-Starchy, Non-Sticky Snacks
While sugar gets most of the blame for cavities, starchy snacks are just as guilty. Crackers and pretzels, for example, can turn into sticky paste on the teeth, feeding bacteria for hours. Choose snacks that dissolve easily, like yogurt, cheese, nuts, and apple slices.
3. Limit Grazing and Set Specific Meal and Snack Times
Each snack provides bacteria with an opportunity to thrive. Limit the number of times your child eats throughout the day and make wise snack choices, ensuring they drink plenty of water afterward.
4. Start Brushing at the First Sign of a Tooth
As soon as your baby’s first tooth appears, begin brushing. Use a washcloth or teething toothbrush for infants. For children aged 3 to 6, a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste is suitable once they can spit it out.
5. Be Careful with Shared Utensils
Avoid sharing utensils with your child as cavity-causing bacteria can be transferred from your mouth to theirs. The same applies to pacifiers. Maintain good oral hygiene yourself to minimize the risk.
6. Teach Proper Flossing Techniques with Floss Sticks
Floss sticks are easier for small hands. Show your child how to gently wiggle the floss between their teeth and drag it along the tooth surfaces without irritating the gums.
7. Introduce an Electric Toothbrush Around Age 3 or 4
Electric toothbrushes can remove more plaque and food particles than manual brushing. They are also fun for kids to use, making them more likely to brush regularly.
8. Assist with Brushing Until They Can Write Their Name Neatly
Proper brushing requires coordination that most children don’t develop until they are about 7 or 8 years old. A good indicator is their ability to neatly write their name.
9. Consider Dental Sealants
Ask your dentist about sealants for your child’s molars, which can have deep grooves that are difficult to clean. Sealants provide an extra layer of protection against cavities.
10. Schedule Dental Check-Ups Twice a Year
Regular dental visits for cleanings and check-ups are essential. Dentists can remove tartar, apply fluoride treatments, and catch early signs of decay to prevent more serious dental issues.
Resources: https://munroefallsfamilydentistry.com/cavity-prevention/10-ways-to-prevent-cavities-in-your-child/
