How To Prevent Tooth Decay In Children

October 16, 2022

How To Prevent Tooth Decay In Children

Children are susceptible to cavities as soon as their first teeth appear, usually around 6 months. Since cavities are one of the most common diseases in children in the United States, it makes sense for parents to be vigilant about their children's oral health. Moreover, good oral hygiene from an early stage is essential for your children's growth. Here are some tips to prevent your child's teeth from decaying.

  1. Brush twice daily

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Encourage your children to brush their teeth twice daily. Using a small amount of fluoride toothpaste, brush the outer surface by spending 30 seconds on each quadrant of the mouth to ensure proper teeth cleaning. You’ll also find it helpful to brush the inner teeth in a small circular motion. Also, clean the gum line with the brush at a 45 degrees angle. Don't forget to clean their tongues. According to the American Dental Association (ADA),  fluoride is a natural mineral that prevents tooth decay and can reverse it in its early stages, so feel free to consider this.

  1. Avoid sugar foods

You also want to reduce the sugary foods kids consume. This is because sugary foods are not friendly to their teeth and can cause bacteria, eventually leading to tooth decay. Moreover, consuming sugary foods also increases acid levels in the mouth, causing plaque to build up. Therefore, you can give your kids water-dense vegetables and fruits to help keep their mouths hydrated. Fruits and vegetables increase saliva production, preventing bacteria from sticking to the teeth, so keep this in mind.

  1. Drink plenty of water

Water is beneficial for many reasons. Not only does it keep your kids hydrated, but it washes away bacteria that cause cavities and food stuck in the mouth.  According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children between the ages of one and three should drink four cups of water daily to stay hydrated. Children between the ages of four and eight should drink five cups of water daily. Likewise, kids above eight should drink seven to eight cups of water a day. Admittedly, your kids may not like to drink water regularly. In this case, you can take certain steps to encourage them to do so. For instance, you can flavor their eater with mint leaves, lemon, or orange slices. Consequently, ensure that they have their water bottles on them always. You can also freeze water with berries to make the water extra cold and flavorful, so feel free to consider this.

  1. Visit the dentist

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Visits to dentists help detect problems early while motivating kids to forward to their checkups without panic. Ensure to take your kids to a dentist who specializes in treating kids, as they explain proper brushing techniques and handle issues associated with children's dental health. 

Your kids need healthy teeth to improve their overall health while reducing disease risks. Parents should endeavor to prioritize their children’s oral health to boost their confidence and capabilities. Hopefully, you’ll consider these tips to achieve the best results. 



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