How to Prevent Cavities in Your Children's Teeth
More than half (57%) ofadolescents between the ages of 12 and 19 have experienced at least one cavity in their permanent teeth. This number could be drastically reduced if proper dental care habits began when they were young. It is up to parents to teach their children how to care for their teeth.
Following these steps and visiting a Houston pediatric dentist in The Heights, TX, can help you prevent cavities.
Visit a Pediatric Dentist
As soon as your child's teeth begin to emerge, you should think about scheduling a dental appointment for your child. A hygienist will clean their teeth, and the dentist will check them for decay. If your child has any signs of decay, your pediatric dentist will suggest treatments for cavities.
Once the dentist visits begin, plan to go back every six months. In some cases, a dentist may suggest visits that are more often. This typically happens when a child is at a higher risk of cavities.
Use Fluoride
Fluoride is considered a preventative for cavities. Have your child use a toothpaste and rinse that is fortified with fluoride. It can repair minor cavities while strengthening the enamel wall of the teeth.
Your child's dentist may also suggest a fluoride treatment that can be done in the office.
Healthy Diet
Avoiding foods that are sticky or high in sugar will help keep the bacteria count in your child's mouth down. Bacteria love sugar, so eating foods high in sugar will help the bacteria flourish.
Sticky foods are one of the most common causes of cavities. This includes obvious culprits like candy or peanut butter. However, it can also include food like beef jerky.
Replace these bad food items with foods that prevent cavities. Look for low sugar and high water content. Fruits and vegetables are good options.
Eat More Dairy
Foods rich in calcium are good for your teeth because they strengthen them. For example, cheese is especially good for your child's teeth because it contains casein. This is a type of protein that strengthens the tooth enamel.
Drinking Plenty of Water
Encourage your child to drink plenty of water. This will hydrate their mouth, helping to prevent bacteria growth. In addition, the drinking action washes the water over their teeth, helping to rinse bacteria off the teeth.
Finally, soda and juice are high in sugar. So, switching these out for water will reduce sugar consumption.
Make Flossing a Must
While many people manage to brush their teeth regularly, they drop the ball when it comes to flossing. Only 41% of Americans floss daily. In addition, a shocking 20% never floss.
Teaching your child to floss is a must because it removes the food from between the teeth. This prevents cavities from forming on the sides of the teeth.
Schedule an Appointment With a Houston Pediatric Dentist in the Heights, TX
By following these steps, you can help your child avoid cavities. Start by taking the proper steps at home. For example, have a flossing and brushing routine.
Avoid sugary foods while eating foods that are high in calcium. Instead, encourage your child to drink plenty of water. Then twice a year, schedule an appointment with a Houston pediatric dentist in The Heights, TX.
Schedule a cleaning appointment with a pediatric dentist for your child and prevent cavities from forming.
