4 Ways To Prevent Cavities In Kids

Cavities may seem like a normal part of childhood, and in fact, the CDC reports that cavities and other forms of tooth decay are the number one chronic illness in children. While cavities in children are common, they can and should often be prevented. Preventing cavities will help your kids avoid painful dental work. Here are four ways to help prevent cavities in kids:

Instill Good Teeth Brushing Habits Early

Like adults, kids should brush their teeth at least twice a day in order to rid their teeth of the food particles that cause tooth decay. The fluoride in toothpaste will also help prevent cavities. With children under age seven or eight, it's best to supervise and help them brush their teeth to make sure they're doing it properly. They should brush their teeth for at least two minutes each time, moving the toothbrush back and forth gently over their teeth.

Have a Sealant Applied

Your child's dentist may wish to apply a sealant over their back teeth. Sealants are a thin layer of plastic that adhere to your child's back teeth, acting as a barrier and protecting the teeth from food particles and plaque. The sealant is painted onto the teeth and bonds to them. Sealants can be very helpful in preventing cavities since the back teeth are notoriously hard to get all the way clean, especially for kids.

Avoid Sticky Snacks

While sugary snacks in general are best eaten only in moderation as a special treat, you should be especially careful about giving your children snacks that are sticky in texture. Snacks such as caramel candy, raisins, fruit leathers, and other very chewy snacks are a magnet for cavities. These snacks stick to the tooth enamel and are hard to remove, even with regular brushing.

Regular Visits to a Family Dentist

In order to maintain good dental health and cavities, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends check-ups every six months. A good family dentist will ensure that your child's check-ups and cleanings are fun and comfortable experiences, even if your child is afraid of the dentist. Be sure to speak about the dentist in a positive, upbeat manner to avoid giving your child the impression that visiting the dentist is something to dread and avoid.

By following these four steps, you can significantly decrease the odds of your children experiencing cavities, and help teach them good dental hygiene at the same time. One dentist you can talk to is Jeffrey S. Thaller DMD.