Preventing Dental Problems and Tooth Decay in Children

Great question! Yes, in fact, tooth decay is preventable! Decay, which is caused by sugars left in your child’s mouth, can turn into an acid, which in turn can break down his or her teeth. Children are at high risk for tooth decay for a simple reason: many children and adolescents tend to be lax in their oral hygiene habits.

Preventing Tooth Decay in Children

•    After you child reaches the age of two, you have to start using fluoride toothpaste twice in a day. In addition, you have to floss their teeth at least once in a day. Make sure that you children keep their mouth clean before going to bed. If you allow children to snack before going to bed, it will lead to dental cavities.

•    Prevent your children from nibbling food or sip sugary drinks every now and then. Low-sugar diet helps in preventing tooth decay. You have to make sure that you allow time between meals so that saliva neutralized the acid present in the mouth and repair the teeth.

•    Make sure that children drink water frequently. It will help in preventing the formation of new cavities. Another important preventive measure is to use sealants. They are applied to the surfaces of the molars and act as a shield to protect harmful bacteria.

•    Finally, make sure that you visit a dental clinic regular for a thorough check up of your children.

Children are vulnerable to tooth decay. Due to improper food habits, sugars are left behind and turn to acid to break down the teeth of children. Oral hygiene plays a vital role in preventing tooth decay in children and adolescents.