Tooth decay in children is surprisingly common. Indeed, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 52% of American children aged 6 to 8 have had at least one cavity in their primary teeth.
Tooth decay is caused by food containing carbohydrates being transformed into acid by bacteria in the mouth. That acid eats away tooth enamel, causing cavities (caries). When cavities develop, they are treated by removing the decayed part of the tooth and replacing it with a filling.
A toothache is a horrible experience for anyone, but more so for a child. Furthermore, a dental appointment will likely necessitate the child missing some school and the parent taking time off work. However, all that can be avoided with simple preventive measures. Here’s how to protect your child’s teeth from tooth decay.
Start Brushing Your Child’s Teeth Early
A child with even only one tooth can develop tooth decay. It’s best to begin a daily brushing routine as soon as the first tooth appears. Brush teeth, tongue, and gums twice daily, using a small amount of toothpaste, about the size of a single grain of rice.
Supervise Brushing in Under Elevens
Children are unlikely to have the skills, patience, or coordination to brush their teeth properly until they are approximately 8 years old. Before that age, it is best if an adult brushes a child’s teeth or closely supervises the brushing. Furthermore, most children will skip the chore if they possibly can. Consequently, it’s a good idea to continue supervision up to 11 years old to ensure correct and thorough brushing.
Start Flossing at Approximately 2 Years Old
Begin flossing your child’s teeth when they have two or more teeth touching, generally occurring at around 2 years of age. Your dentist can advise when and how to floss your child’s teeth. As with brushing, it is best to supervise older children’s flossing up to about 11 years.
Make Brushing and Flossing A Habit
Children who get into regular brushing and flossing will continue with that habit for life. Consequently, you are not only protecting your kids from childhood tooth decay; you are creating a routine that will help them have healthy teeth gums all their life. So, stick with it, even when your children resist; they will thank you for your persistence when they get older.
Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Use fluoride toothpaste from age 2 or when your dentist advises. Always follow the toothpaste manufacturer’s recommended amount, and don’t forget to teach your child not to rinse after brushing. Then, the fluoride can keep on working after brushing.
Avoid Putting Sugary Drinks in Bottles or Sippy Cups
Prolonged exposure to sugary drinks, including juice, will cause tooth decay. So, it is best not to give your child sugary drinks in a bottle or sippy cup. Instead, offer your child water when they are thirsty. Formula milk also can cause tooth decay if used as a regular daytime drink instead of just for feeding.
Prevent the Transfer of Bacteria
The bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease can be passed from one person to another in saliva. Furthermore, children are not born with harmful bacteria in their mouths. So, it’s best not to share eating utensils with a child or clean their pacifier with your mouth.
Limit Sugar Intake
There is a direct link between the amount of sugar a child consumes and the probability of them developing tooth decay. Consequently, limiting sweet drinks and treats like candy and cookies is advisable.
Attend Regular Dental Checkups
Dental checkups are just as important for kids as for adults because they enable any problems to be spotted and treated early. They also allow the dentist to advise parents and guardians on caring for their child’s teeth. It is recommended that children be registered with a dentist as soon as their first tooth appears. Following that, a child should visit their dentist at least once a year or as advised by the dentist.
Set a Good Example
It’s all very well telling a child to do as you say, not as you do, but children follow the lead of the adults in their lives. Consequently, if you set an example by brushing and flossing regularly, children in your care will likely do the same. Make oral hygiene a family routine because it will help get your children into good habits.
Conclusion
Tooth decay in children can lead to long nights of pain and discomfort. It can also affect a child’s performance at school and sometimes lead to behavioral problems. Furthermore, taking care of child’s teeth when they are young will help ensure they have fewer dental issues when they are older. Following the above tips will help prevent tooth decay in children and get them into oral hygiene habits that will last a lifetime.