How to Prevent Tooth Decay in Children

Unfortunately, cavities are among the most common dental ailments in children between the ages of 6 and 12. Despite how healthy your child’s diet might be, there is still a chance that tooth decay will occur. There are plenty of ways though to prevent tooth decay in children. At My Dentist Anaheim, Dr. Tarun Patel and our friendly experts have plenty of treatments and preventative measures that can help your little one stay on the right track to good oral health. Many different things can cause tooth decay, but the earlier it is caught, the sooner it can be taken care of.

Cut Down on Sugar

The number one advice that any dentist will give you to prevent tooth decay in children and adults is to cut down on your sugar intake. You may be feeding your child a healthy and nutritious diet, but sugar is in almost everything. This is especially true for fruit juices and other flavored drinks that your child might enjoy. And according to the University of Michigan, almost every kind of juice on the market has plenty of added sugars.

But why does sugar cause tooth decay?

When you eat sugar, the sugar molecules get left behind on your teeth. These molecules combine with bacteria and other substances that form in the mouth, causing a layer of plaque to build upon the teeth. This plaque can harden on the surface of your teeth, causing decay and spreading through your mouth if left untreated.

Encourage a Daily Oral Health Routine

Your kids should start getting into the habit of brushing and flossing every day, just like you were always taught when growing up. You can also lead by example, making sure to brush and floss your own teeth every day, so your kids get used to the sight of this daily process. You should start encouraging daily brushing of your child’s teeth from as early as the day when they grow their first baby teeth. As your children’s teeth start to come in, use this time as a learning process for both of you to form healthy daily habits.

Don’t Let Lids and Straws Linger in the Mouth

Research shows that young children who fall asleep with the sippy cup in their mouths are more likely to develop tooth decay at an early age because of the prolonged contact with sugary substances. When feeding your baby with formula bottles, make sure to remove it from the baby’s mouth as soon your child finishes. Don’t let it linger. Cut down on the number of times throughout the day that you give your child a cup of juice to sip on. These sugary substances can sure make a difference in the health of your child’s teeth!

The Best Way to Prevent Tooth Decay

You can protect your child’s teeth against the dangers of decay and infection through a quick and easy dental sealant in Anaheim. The dentist will apply a clear coating on top of your child’s teeth, which will act as a shield to prevent bacteria from getting into the roots and pulp of each tooth. There are so many nooks and crannies within molars and teeth, and it’s so easy for bad bacteria to slip through. But with dental sealants, there is no possible way for particles to get through. Dental sealants can last up to a decade. If you are concerned about the health of your child’s teeth or want to invest in their healthy future, this is a simple and painless procedure that you and your child will benefit from.

Get Rid of Tooth Decay Today!

Teach your child about the importance of daily oral hygiene. By brushing and flossing each day, your child is greatly reducing the risk of tooth decay. The longer tooth decay exists, the more it will impact your child’s oral health. If left untreated, decay can turn into cavities, infection, and more serious conditions throughout the body. Prevent decay by getting dental sealants today. Your child won’t feel a thing, and you can be happy that both you and your loved ones are free from the risk of tooth decay!

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