Help Your Child Prevent Tooth Decay

Did you know that children are more susceptible to cavities than adults because of the lack of brushing habits and brushing appropriately, as well as eating too much sugar. Once inside the child's mouth, the bacteria live on the teeth in what is called a biofilm. When the child consumes sugary foods or drinks, the bacteria act upon the sugar to produce acids that eat away at the child's teeth, producing tooth decay.

These bacteria thrive on carbohydrates such as bread, sweets, and sodas. Even fruit juices, which offer more vitamins than soda, are filled with sugars that lead to decay. The child's saliva works hard to neutrilize the acidity produced from these foods, but if the child often snacks between meals this neutralization process doesn't have a chance to occur.

The first sign of decay may be white spots on the teeth, an indication that minerals in the surface enamel have been dissolved in certain locations. Before it goes any farther, this process can be reversed by reducing the exposure to acids and using fluorides to strengthen the tooth surface.

When your children are very young, you must brush their teeth. As they get older, they can do it by themselves, with your supervision. You can also help your child develop the habit of brushing with fluoridated toothpaste. It is important to use only a smear of toothpaste on the brush for very young children, and a pea-sized amount on the brush for children over the age of 2. Sometimes small children swallow their toothpaste, and excessive amounts of fluoride can cause staining on the teeth. Your dentist can also apply fluoride varnish to strengthen the tooth surface and make it resistant to acids.

Another good idea is to wean children from bottles and training cups as early as possible. Sometimes children are given bottles filled with milk or sugary beverages at bedtime to help them relax. A better idea for thier teeth is to teach them to drink from a regular cup filled with milk or preferably, with water. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits help children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.