Preventing Cavities in Children
There are several factors that can bring about tooth decay on your kid’s teeth — bacteria, sugars, and poor oral hygiene. The bacteria present in the mouth can generate acids from the sugars that we consume, and these acids can dissolve and strip away the enamel. This damage to the enamel is what leads to decay and cavities in your kid’s tooth.
Fixing a cavity requires a trip to the dental office, so the dentist can repair the hole or put a replacement tooth in case a simple restoration won’t suffice. But what better way to fix tooth decay than to prevent them from forming in the first place.
Preventing Your Kid from Getting Tooth Decay
There’s a lot you can do to protect your kid against tooth decay. Preventing tooth decay will require you to watch your kid’s diet and encourage him or her to practice good oral hygiene. Teaching your kid about the importance of oral hygiene early on is extremely important. In fact, as soon as the first baby tooth erupts, it is a must to begin brushing and flossing it.
Other tips for preventing your kid’s teeth from getting cavities are listed below:
For Babies and Young Children
- After feeding, gently wipe the gums with a soft, clean cloth.
- When the first tooth shows up, clean it regularly through gentle brushing; brush with water only and don’t toothpaste yet.
- When the second tooth shows up, begin flossing in-between the teeth.
- Bring your kid to the dentist, ideally before he or she reaches age 1.
For Adolescents
- Brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day.
- Increase your fluid intake and each lots of nutritious foods like fruits and vegetables)
- Refrain from eating sticky and/or sugary foods and beverages.
- Go to the dentist regularly for checkups, professional cleaning, and perhaps sealants for teeth where a small decay has started.
- Use a mouth guard when playing sports.
- Quit tobacco use.
- Don’t get any oral piercings.
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