Preventing Tooth Decay in Children

We always want the best for our children.  And that includes their dental health also. So, we have to note that tooth decay, which affects the tooth’s enamel and dentin layer, is the most common severe childhood dental disease.

The leading cause of tooth decays are unhealthy dental habits from early childhood, which lead to severe dental issues in the future. A child with tooth pain suffers sleeping problems. It also affects their day-to-day activities, especially studies.

How tooth decay occurs? 

Usually, tooth decay in children is caused by particles of carbohydrates or candies accumulating on the teeth. This could result in bacteria growth. These bacteria will combine with digestion- boosting acids and saliva to form plaque. And the plaque affects the enamel, thus causing tooth decay.

Signs of childhood tooth decay

Early signs of tooth decay include:

• Bad breath
• Bleeding gums
• Toothache
• Formation of plaques in children's teeth
• Sensitivity to sugar or other kinds of food.

Therefore, whenever your child feels any pain or sensation in the tooth, schedule a dental appointment. The dentist would check your teeth and may recommend mouthwash or toothpaste, or other tools to protect your child from tooth decay. The teeth can fall out through tooth decay and lead to misaligned teeth problems in the future.

Tips to Prevent Tooth Decay in Children

• Avoid sugary food

Sugar can affect the enamel and cause tooth cavities.  If your child eats sugary food, make sure to rinse the mouth with water and wash out the sugar content.

• Brush teeth twice a day

Clean your baby's gum with a soft cloth to remove plaques before the first teeth come in. After the teeth appear, use soft toothbrushes for cleaning. If your child younger than three, uses fluoride toothpaste,  it will to help to prevent tooth decay.

Teach your child to brush twice a day and floss daily. This will help wash out debris from the mouth and keep their teeth clean. Also, teach your child to spit out the toothpaste. Children under six always tend to swallow much of the toothpaste, and this can cause dental fluorosis. You can also opt for fluoride-free toothpaste.

• Eat healthy 

Your child's diet is vital in preventing cavities. Always try to give nutritious food to your child. That will help strengthen their teeth and reduce the risk of tooth decay. 

• Visit your dentist regularly 

Visit your child's dentist regularly so that your dentist can find out the teeth problem and can fix it at an early stage. 

Prevention is better than cure. Teach your child at a young age about dental hygiene, healthy dental habits, and healthy lifestyles. Our child’s smile is the best blessing from God, so make sure they always have a healthy, bright smile. 

Are you worried about your child’s tooth decay problems? Book an appointment online with Dentist in Murfreesboro TN now!