Pediatric Dentistry
Cavity Prevention
Tooth decay and children no longer have to go hand in hand. At our office we are most concerned with all aspects of preventive care. Our goal is to set the foundation for your child’s lifetime of good oral health.
What is tooth decay?
Several types of bacteria live on the teeth and can cause decay. When sugar is consumed, the bacteria use the sugar to produce an acid. It is this acid that dissolves the tooth structure causing an “infection” in the tooth. The infection is called decay, otherwise known as a cavity.
How can I prevent cavities?
Limiting sugar intake and brushing regularly can help. Every time we eat, an acid reaction occurs inside our mouths as the bacteria digest the sugars we have consumed. The reaction lasts approximately 20 minutes. During this time, the acid environment can destroy tooth structure, eventually leading to cavities.
Tips or cavity prevention:
- Limit the frequency of meals and snacks
- Encourage brushing, flossing and rinsing
- Avoid sticky foods
- Make treats part of a meal
- Choose nutritious snacks
- Be aware of what your child drinks
Can my child’s diet and hygiene affect their dental health?
Absolutely. It is important to provide your child with a balanced diet so that their teeth develop appropriately. In addition, this will positively affect healthy gum tissue surrounding the teeth. A balanced diet is one that includes the major food groups daily: Fruits and Vegetables, Breads and Cereals, Milk and Dairy products, Meat, Fish and Eggs. Please be aware that a diet high in sugar and other forms of carbohydrates may increase the risk of tooth decay.
Also important is the frequency with which your child eats: the more frequently the snacking, the greater the risk for dental decay. Those foods high in sugar and/or carbohydrates, and those that are sticky and retentive will increase the risk even more.
Sugar is found in more than just candy. It is found in many processed foods, even those that do not taste sweet. Most milk-based products contain sugar. A peanut butter and jelly sandwich not only contains sugar in the jelly but also in the peanut butter! For less sugar, try replacing the jelly with fresh fruit slices.
If you do not reside in a community that has optimal fluoridation and have the appropriate amount of natural fluoride in your well water, your child may need a fluoride supplement in their diet during the years of tooth development. We can help you determine how much of a supplement, if any, your child needs.
For children not yet on solid foods, do not put them to bed with a bottle of milk, juice, formula or any sweetened drink. Do not nurse your child to sleep, either. While your child is sleeping, the unswallowed liquid bathes the teeth with sugar and supports the bacteria that can produce acids and harm the teeth. A pacifier or bottle of water is fine!