How Do You Prevent Cavities In Children?

By Author: James Franklin
Total Articles: 180
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When we think of the most common infectious diseases among children, tooth decay usually does not make it to the list. However, more than half of children have it. In fact, tooth decay among children is responsible for the loss of more than 51 million hours in school. Some experts dub tooth decay as a silent pandemic, but it is not exactly silent. Studies have shown that toothache pain is the same as that of a broken leg or arm.

Fortunately, tooth decay can be prevented. You just have to know its cause so you will know how you can avoid it. Tooth decay can happen on anyone, even to a one-year-old who only has one tooth. It also affects kids with high sugar exposures, particularly in food items like soda, chocolates and candies. Children who lack tooth brushing and fluoride exposure, as well as those with poor brushing are also prone to developing tooth decay.

Listed below are some of the most effective strategies to prevent cavities among children.

1.Come up with a tooth brushing routine. Kids usually respond positively with a routine. ...
... A child who gets in the habit or regularly brushing their teeth can carry it forward into their adolescent years up until adulthood. It is normal for children to resist initially, but most of them should eventually concede with consistent and constant reinforcement.
2. Help kids below 8 years old brush their teeth, and supervise until age 11. Usually, although they can already tie their shoes, 8-year-old kids still do not have the skills to effectively brush their teeth. It is important for parents to ensure that no food particle is left behind, as it can lead to cavities. Even when a child is already able to brush on their own, parents should still continue to supervise to make sure that they are doing a good job.
3. Regularly visit the dentist. Pediatric dental appointments are just as important as adult appointments. This helps reinforce that oral health is essential to overall health, and offers the perfect time to check for early signs of cavity. Dentists can also give parents strategies in taking care of their kid’s teeth, along with pointers on issues like snacking and dental trauma.
4. Brush with fluoride. By the time your kid is two years old, let them use toothpaste with fluoride. Follow the recommended amount of the package, and allow the fluoride to stay on their teeth to give added protection. Dentists can start fluoride toothpaste for children younger than two years, but doing so usually comes with more specialized instructions.
5. Limit intake of sugar. The amount of sugar present in the food and drinks of children is related to the increase in tooth decay cases. There are lots of simple ways to help reduce it. If you have any questions on the kind of nutrition that your kids need, talk to their dentist.
6. Model good behavior. One of the most outstanding things parents can do for their oral health of their children is to take care of their own. A child who sees their parent value their teeth shows and further reinforces its importance. Make oral care a family event, and let the kids see how the whole family does not go to bed without brushing their teeth first.

Cavities can lead to long days and nights of pain, poor school performance, and even behavioral issues among some children. Follow the tips listed above and help your kids avoid infection, tooth loss, and even hospital admissions because of tooth decay. Talk to reputable a pediatric dentist in your area now to give you more tips on how to prevent cavities in children.