If your child seems to always get cavities, you may be wondering how to stop their teeth from decaying, and how to ensure they maintain a healthy mouth throughout childhood and into adulthood. In this guide from Gary Sabbadini, DDS, we’ll discuss everything you need to know.
Cavities Are Common In Children – Tips To Reduce The Risk Of Cavities
First, let’s clear something up. Cavities are very common in children, and while they should be prevented if possible, it’s not abnormal for your child to develop a few cavities in their baby teeth and adult teeth as they grow.
According to the CDC, cavities are the single most common chronic disease in kids between the ages of 6-19 years. However, you can dramatically reduce your child’s risk of cavities by taking a few simple steps.
- Ensure they brush twice a day – Your kids need to brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste. Whether you’re still brushing for them or they’re brushing on your own, make sure they brush once in the morning after breakfast, and once at night after their last meal or snack of the day.
- Flossing once per day – Flossing helps reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. You can floss for your child when they’re younger, and they can usually learn to floss on their own between the ages of 6-10.
- Cutting out sugar – Limit the amount of sugary drinks like juice, cola, sweetened tea, or sweetened coffee, and reduce the overall amount of sugary foods and snacks your children consume. Less sugar means a lower risk of cavities. Starchy snacks like chips, pretzels and tortilla chips should also be avoided.
Get Regular Six-Month Teeth Cleanings To Detect Decay Early
In addition to the above steps, you should also make sure to bring your child to a board-certified pediatric dentist like Dr. Gary Sabbadini every six months. Six-month cleanings for kids are almost always covered by insurance, so chances are that you can get your little one the care they need without paying out-of-pocket.
At your child’s appointment, Dr. Sabbadini can examine your child’s mouth and provide you with personalized recommendations about how to prevent the formation of cavities. Dr. Sabbadini will also be able to recognize early signs of decay (soft spots) in teeth, and ensure that your child gets the care they need to prevent further decay, such as a fluoride treatment.
Consider Dental Sealants If Your Child Is Cavity-Prone
If your child gets cavities frequently, dental sealants can be a good way to reduce the risk of decay in the future. Sealants are made of liquid dental resin, and are usually applied to the rear molars, which are the most susceptible to cavities.
This resin is painted onto the teeth, then hardened with a dental light. It forms a strong barrier that prevents bacteria, acid, and food particles from contacting your child’s enamel directly, which helps stop the formation of cavities. Sealants can help protect your child’s teeth for up to 10 years.
Contact Us Today For A Pediatric Consultation In Pinole
Proper dental care from an experienced pediatric dentist is essential for preventing your child from getting cavities. So don’t wait. Book an appointment online or give us a call at (510) 724-4400 to get an appointment with Dr. Gary right away, and get your little one the care they need.