Say Goodbye to Cavities
We all want our children to have healthy teeth and beautiful smiles. However, tooth decay is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly one in four children aged two to 11 have untreated cavities in their baby teeth. Fortunately, there are many pediatric dental treatments to prevent cavities in children.
Learn more by calling (715) 646-2161 to reach out to our top dentist in Centuria, WI, Dr. Vargas about preventing tooth decay.
Establishing Good Oral Hygiene Habits Early On
Good oral hygiene habits should start as early as infancy. Here are some tips for establishing good oral hygiene habits for your child:
- Even before your child’s teeth erupt, gently wipe their gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings.
- Once the first tooth appears, you should start brushing it with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. You can use fluoride-free toothpaste until your child can spit out toothpaste after brushing.
- As your child grows, you can gradually increase the amount of toothpaste to a pea-sized amount.
- Teach your child how to floss their teeth once they have two teeth that touch. You can use floss picks or interdental brushes to make flossing easier for your child.
- Make brushing and flossing a fun and positive experience for your child. Sing a song, play a game, or use a timer to make brushing and flossing more enjoyable.
- Be a good role model for your child by practicing good oral hygiene habits yourself. Brush and floss your teeth together with your child to make it a family activity.
Regular Dental Checkups and Cleanings
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for cavity prevention in children. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children visit the dentist for the first time by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth eruption. After that, children should see the dentist every six months for routine checkups and cleanings. These visits allow the dentist to detect and treat dental problems before they become more serious.
Fluoride Treatments and Supplements
Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay by making the tooth enamel more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth. Fluoride treatments and supplements can be beneficial for children who are at high risk for cavities. Your dentist may recommend fluoride varnish or supplements if your child doesn’t get enough fluoride from drinking water or other sources.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants for children’s teeth are thin, plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). These teeth have deep grooves and pits that can be hard to clean properly, making them more susceptible to decay. Dental sealants create a barrier that prevents food and bacteria from getting trapped in these grooves, reducing the risk of cavities. Your dentist may recommend dental sealants for your child’s molars and premolars as soon as they erupt.
Diet and Nutrition Recommendations for Cavity Prevention
A healthy diet is essential for good oral health. Sugary and starchy foods and drinks can increase the risk of cavities by feeding the bacteria that produce acid in the mouth. Encourage your child to eat a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products. Limit sugary and starchy foods and drinks, like candy, soda, juice, and sweetened cereals.
Strategies for Parents and Caregivers
There are many things you can do to help prevent cavities and dental decay in your children.
- Encourage good oral hygiene habits
- Limit sugary and starchy foods and drinks
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings
You can also make dental visits less stressful for your child by preparing them beforehand, bringing a favorite toy or book to the appointment, and praising them for their good behavior.
Special Considerations for High-Risk Children
Some children are at higher risk for cavities due to medical conditions, developmental disabilities, or a history of dental problems. If your child is in one of these categories, it’s important to work closely with your child’s dentist to develop a customized plan for cavity prevention. Your child’s dentist may recommend more frequent dental checkups and cleanings, fluoride treatments or supplements, dental sealants, or other preventive measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
To prevent cavities, limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, such as candy, soda, and fruit juice. Instead, encourage your child to eat a healthy and balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Yes, dental sealants can help prevent early childhood caries. Sealants are a thin, plastic coating applied to the back teeth (molars) to protect them from decay. They’re most effective when applied soon after the molars have erupted, typically around age six.
Yes, fluoride treatments are safe for children. Fluoride is a mineral that helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Fluoride treatments can be applied at the dentist’s office or fluoride supplements, such as toothpaste or mouthwash. It’s important to follow the recommended dosage and talk to your child’s dentist if you have any concerns.