Cavities in children are more common than in adults. It starts when bacteria in the mouth consume sugar and create an acid that attacks the teeth. This acid dissolves the enamel and causes cavities. Here are a few tips to take care of oral health in children:
- Brushing and Flossing
Children should brush their teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day. Even toddlers can learn how to brush and floss their teeth. Parents should brush and floss along with their children so that they also develop the habit of practicing oral hygiene practices.
- Proper Hygiene
Children are prone to dental decay and cavities. This can be avoided by practicing proper oral care at home. Here are some tips to help your child maintain good oral health.
Don’t place your child to bed with a bottle. Although this may seem like the best way to soothe your child to sleep, it can actually cause tooth decay. The sugars in the milk or juice can linger in the mouth and cause bacteria to grow and develop.
Allow your child to eat sweets in moderation. If a child is allowed to have sweets often, they may develop dental decay. Try to limit the amount of time your child has sweets, and opt for healthier alternatives, such as fruit.
- Regular Checkups
Schedule regular dentist appointments for your child. These appointments can help keep your child’s teeth healthy. The dentist can detect any areas of decay early before they become a serious problem.
- Dental Sealants
Applying dental sealants can protect your child from tooth decay. Dental sealants are thin, clear coatings that are applied to teeth as a liquid and then harden. They are typically applied to back teeth, which are the molars.
- Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride treatments are an easy and painless way to protect your smile from tooth decay. This treatment can be done on children and adults alike. Fluoride treatments can strengthen your child’s teeth and reduce the risk of cavities.
- Quit Thumb sucking and Pacifier Habits
Thumb sucking and pacifier habits are normal behaviors for children. But, if they continue past age three, the habit can cause problems for teeth. The constant pressure of sucking can cause teeth to move out of proper position, which can result in crooked teeth. Another concern is how the habit can change the way your child’s teeth fit together. The pacifier can cause the roof of the mouth to move forward while the lips are pushed down. This can cause the teeth to come together in a way that makes them more likely to experience dental problems. If you think your child needs help with quitting thumb sucking and pacifier habits, talk to our pediatric dentist.
Contact Grant Gerety, DDS at Warren Clinic Bldg # 7, 4606 E. 67th St., Suite 310, Tulsa, OK 74136. Call us at (918) 493-3031 to book an appointment.
