Top 5 Tips for Preventing Childhood Cavities

Taking steps to prevent cavities in your child’s early development is the best way to start good oral health habits that continue throughout life. Educating them on proper daily oral hygiene, the importance of a nutritious diet, and other factors that are good for their oral health can go a long way toward minimizing the risk of cavities and other teeth and gum concerns. Our dentists at Smile for Life Dental place a high emphasis on patient education, especially for children who are in the process of learning how to take the best possible care of their teeth. 

Since cavities are one of the most common dental conditions experienced by children throughout the U.S., here are a few tips on what you can do to help your child prevent them from developing and maintain healthy teeth and gums long into the future: 

Establish Regular Oral Hygiene Routines 

Getting your child into the habit of brushing at least twice and flossing at least once per day is absolutely the most important thing you can do to reduce the risk of cavities. Plus, setting up these daily routines early can maximize the chance that they will continue into adulthood. 

Establish a Nutritious Diet 

A healthy, nutritious diet is not only important for a child’s overall health, but also for their dental health. Try to minimize your child’s consumption of both foods and beverages that have high levels of carbohydrates, sugar, and starch. Those ingredients have been found to increase plaque, which is a bacteria that can lead to the development of cavities. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, grains, and dairy products offers options that are healthier for the teeth and gums. In addition, drinking plenty of water can help rinse away bacteria that settles on the teeth. 

Schedule Dental Check-Ups At Least Twice Each Year 

Twice-yearly dental exams can identify oral health concerns before they get more serious, while routine professional dental cleanings can address plaque and bacteria that have collected in hidden areas too difficult to reach with a regular toothbrush. 

Be Sure to Include a Fluoride Treatment 

A topical fluoride treatment during a dental cleaning can be a powerful tool for preventing cavities. Fluoride treatments are completely painless and can make the teeth stronger and less likely to suffer from decay. 

Think About Having Dental Sealants Placed 

Dental sealants are made of a durable, tooth-colored material that can provide a barrier of protection between vulnerable teeth and cavity-causing bacteria. Often placed on the back teeth, dental sealants are very common treatments for children and can serve to prevent food and bacteria from entering small crevices in the teeth. 

If you have questions, or if you would like to schedule an appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact Smile for Life Dental today!