Preventing Tooth Decay in Children

At Stonegate Family Dentistry, we always want the best for your 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 in Murfreesboro TN 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. Call us to learn more.

Tips to Prevent Tooth Decay in Children

 Here are some tips to help parents and caregivers prevent tooth decay in children:

1. Establish Good Oral Hygiene Habits:Encourage your child to brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and to floss daily. Supervise brushing until your child can do it effectively on their own, usually around age 6 or 7.
2. Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks:Sugary snacks and beverages can contribute to tooth decay. Limit your child's consumption of sugary foods and drinks, including candies, cookies, sodas, and fruit juices. Offer healthier snack options such as fruits, vegetables, cheese, and nuts.
3. Encourage Water Consumption:Water is the best beverage for maintaining oral health. Encourage your child to drink water throughout the day, especially after meals and snacks. Water helps rinse away food particles and neutralize acids that can contribute to tooth decay.
4. Serve Balanced Meals: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products provides essential nutrients for healthy teeth and gums. Limit starchy and sticky foods, which can cling to teeth and promote decay.
5. Schedule Regular Dental Check-ups:Take your child to the dentist in 37129 for regular check-ups and cleanings every six months or as recommended by their dentist. Dental visits allow the dentist to monitor your child's oral health, detect any signs of decay or other dental issues early, and provide preventive treatments such as fluoride treatments and dental sealants.
6. Apply Fluoride: Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. Use fluoride toothpaste and, if recommended by your child's dentist, fluoride mouthwash or gels. Some communities also have fluoridated water, which can further protect against decay.
7. Use Dental Sealants: Dental sealants are thin, and protective coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to prevent decay. They act as a barrier against bacteria and food particles, reducing the risk of cavities in these hard-to-reach areas.
8. Lead by Example:Children learn by example, so be a positive role model for good oral hygiene habits. Brush and floss your teeth regularly, eat a balanced diet, and prioritize dental visits for yourself. Your child is more likely to adopt healthy habits if they see you practicing them, too.

By following these preventive measures and promoting good oral hygiene habits from an early age, parents and caregivers can help children maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent tooth decay. If you have any concerns about your child's oral health or need guidance on preventive strategies, consult with your child's dentist.

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