Prevent tooth decay in your children

Studies conducted by the American Academy of Pediatric dentistry have found that tooth decay,” is the single most common chronic disease in America,” (American Academy of Pediatric dentistry.) In fact, rates of tooth decay are higher than asthma, obesity and diabetes in children. Your child does not have to be a part of this statistic because you can prevent tooth decay by establishing healthy preventive dental measures. Tooth decay begins with high sugary or high acid substances that stay on the teeth,or gums, for a long period of time. Decay usually occurs around age six when the first permanent teeth erupt. However, habits that are put in place with your child before their first permanent teeth come in can make a difference.

 

For example, after breastfeeding or when your baby has had a bottle, wipe off their gums with a tooth wipe. It is highly recommended by pediatric dentist, Dr.Cameron Fuller, “Never put your baby to bed with a bottle.” The milk in the bottle causes plaque build-up, which causes decay because the milk sticks to the teeth. The longer your child goes without brushing their teeth the greater the increase of acid build-up.

Brushing with a soft toothbrush can begin as soon as your child's teeth begin to come in. You want to brush each quadrant for two minutes in gentle circles. Flossing can also occur once your child's teeth have erupted. You want to gently floss between the teeth in order to get any plaque that is left between their teeth. Consistency in this process will help your child develop healthy oral hygiene habits from a young age and will prevent the build-up of plaque. Every six months it is recommended that your child visit their dentist. This helps establish the importance of regular check-ups and will allow Dr. Fuller to catch any dental problems early on.

Preventive care is the best solution to combat tooth decay in children.