It can be hard to get a child to regularly brush their teeth. Add to that their love of candy, and you have a potent mix for oral bacteria. Making sure your child has good dental hygiene is important for setting them up for a bright, white smile throughout their lives.
What causes tooth decay in children?
Primarily, tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth turn sugar into acid, which then attacks the enamel of the teeth. For children, frequent snacking on sugary foods or sipping on sugary drinks, including fruit juices, can put them at higher risk. The situation is exacerbated if oral hygiene—like regular brushing and flossing—is neglected.
How can tooth decay be prevented?
Prevention should start early by establishing a dental hygiene routine as soon as the first tooth appears.
Here’s how you can help protect your child’s dental health:
Limit sugary foods and drinks: Encourage healthier snacking habits by opting for fruits, vegetables, and water instead of sugary alternatives.
Schedule regular dental visits: Schedule dental check-ups every six months to ensure any signs of decay are caught early.
Encourage fluoride use: Ensure your child uses toothpaste with fluoride and discuss additional fluoride treatments with your dentist if necessary.
Educate them on oral health: Teach your child the importance of brushing twice a day and flossing regularly. Make it fun by choosing toothbrushes and toothpaste that are appealing to them.
Treatment options for tooth decay in children
If your child does develop tooth decay, there are several treatment options available depending on the severity:
Fluoride treatments: Early decay can sometimes be reversed with fluoride treatments which help to restore the enamel.
Fillings: When decay leads to cavities, a dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill it with a material like composite resin or silver amalgam.
Crowns: Though not often used, if I child has a particularly deep filling, your dentist may recommend a crown even on one of their adolescent teeth.
Removal: If your child is already losing their adolescent teeth, your dentist may recommend simply pulling a tooth and letting the adult tooth grow in naturally.
Remember, the best way to manage tooth decay is to prevent it from happening in the first place. By instilling good oral hygiene practices in your children from an early age, you set them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Engage them in the process, and make dental care a regular part of their daily routine.
Together, you can fight the battle against tooth decay and ensure your child enjoys the benefits of strong, healthy teeth.