You’ve probably known someone whose children have tooth decay; after all, according to the CDC, it’s the most common chronic disease among children ages 6 to 11. Some parents may think cavities in baby teeth are nothing to worry about. After all, the teeth will fall out anyway, right? But don’t make that mistake; a healthy mouth early in life is very important and can save your little ones from a lot of pain later on. Children’s dentistry is very focused on cavity prevention, and you can do your part to help protect your child’s smile at home.
How Do Cavities Develop in Children?
As you probably know, a major cause of tooth decay is plaque, a sticky layer of film filled with bacteria. Many of the foods your children eat (such as candy and fruit juice) contain sugars and other carbohydrates; the bacteria feed on these bits of food and secrete acidic plaque, which eats away at the enamel of the teeth. This is how cavities are formed. A child’s teeth are especially vulnerable to decay because the enamel in their baby teeth and first permanent teeth is softer and less developed.
Why is Protecting My Child From Cavities Important?
A cavity can be extremely painful and can lead to tooth loss if untreated; while baby teeth will eventually fall out and be replaced, they can still have a negative influence on adult teeth. Advanced tooth decay will require treatment, and this may lead to a fear of dental visits later on. Furthermore, poor oral hygiene early in life tends to continue into adulthood, leading to even more problems; it’s best that your child learns the importance of taking care of their mouth sooner rather than later.
How Can I Help My Child Avoid Cavities?
Making brushing and flossing a daily routine early in life should be one of your priorities as a parent. Here are some ways to encourage your children to pick up the right habits:
- Set a good example by brushing and flossing regularly yourself; it can be more fun when it’s a family affair.
- Let your child pick a toothbrush and toothpaste they like.
- Set a progress chart and give small rewards for sticking to it.
- Make sure you and your child are seeing the family dentist regularly, and be sure they know why these visits are so important.
A smile is a precious resource, and good oral health during childhood makes it easier to maintain later in life. Remember to talk to their dentist for ideas on how you can keep your child’s teeth happy and healthy. Be sure to speak with your children as well; they look to you to know what to do, so it’s up to you to show why good oral health is a priority.
About the Practice
At Capron Park Dental in Attleboro, top-rated dentists Drs. William Herr, Andrew Luccio, and Trinh Vo offer a full menu of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry services. Dr. Herr has had experience treating veterans and practicing all aspects of dentistry as part of a residency program with the Veteran Administration. To schedule an appointment for your child and learn more about protecting their oral health, visit their website or call (508) 222-5950.