5 ways to help children prevent cavities.

Encourage your child to practice good oral hygiene, reduce their intake of sugary foods, and have regular dental checkups to prevent bacteria from eroding their teeth and causing cavities.

Tooth decay occurs when the tooth structure is destroyed and can affect even the enamel (the outer layer of the tooth). Food debris from carbohydrate-containing foods such as bread, cereals, milk, soda, fruit, cakes, and sweets left on the teeth creates an environment for bacteria to thrive.

Bacteria feed on sugar and produce acids that erode the structure of teeth by depleting calcium. They also create plaque—a yellow film that builds up and damages tooth enamel, creating holes in the teeth.

Tooth decay is common in young children, affecting approximately 42% of children aged 2-11, according to the National Institute of Dental and Maxillofacial Research. Here are some ways to help prevent tooth decay in young children.

Maintain good oral hygiene.

Children should maintain good oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and rinsing their mouths regularly to remove food debris, bacteria, and plaque. Prioritize oral care products containing fluoride to restore calcium in decayed teeth and limit the production of corrosive acids.

When children start teething, parents can use wipes or toothbrushes designed for children to clean their teeth. At this age, it's preferable to use toothpaste specifically formulated for babies.

Children who maintain good oral hygiene are less likely to get cavities. Photo: Freepik

Reduce sugar consumption.

Limiting sugar intake helps eliminate bacteria that damage tooth enamel and contributes to preventing cavities. Children need to reduce both the frequency and total amount of sugar they consume.

Besides fruit juices and candy, carbohydrate-rich foods like cookies, cereals, and sticky foods like dried fruit and gummy candies can also promote tooth decay. If children eat these foods, parents should remind them to brush their teeth afterward.

Avoid sugary drinks at night.

Tooth decay in young children is often primarily caused by drinking formula milk or sugary fruit juice at night, allowing sugar to remain on the tooth surface for 10-12 hours. Water or certain herbal teas suitable for young children are healthier choices for oral health.

Avoid sharing toothbrushes.

Avoid letting children share utensils or toothbrushes with people who have dental problems. Parents or relatives should use antibacterial mouthwash to reduce the spread of infection.

Regular dental check-ups

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that parents have their children's teeth checked at least twice a year. Children at high risk of cavities or with poor oral hygiene should have more frequent checkups.

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