Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 20% of children between the ages of 5 and 11 have at least one untreated cavity. Even in baby teeth, tooth decay that’s allowed to progress will eventually become painful and can influence your child’s nutrition, speaking patterns, and permanent tooth development. Thankfully, the right healthy habits can easily protect your son or daughter’s smile. Read on as your dentist in Norman breaks down the top three factors that cause cavities in children.
Bad Dental Routines
Regular dental care is the best way for anyone to keep their teeth strong and healthy. Getting your son or daughter to stick to a great dental routine can be a challenge, especially since the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends brushing for a full two minutes twice a day! However, setting up this important habit early in their life prevents cavities in the short run as well as protects them from other oral health issues like gum disease later in life.
To get your child excited about dental healthcare, try getting them a toothbrush with their favorite cartoon character on it and toothpaste in a fun flavor like watermelon. Make sure you’re setting a good example by keeping up your own great dental routine as well!
Sugary Diets
Although it’s common knowledge, do you know how sugar causes tooth decay? Natural bacteria inside the mouth feeds off of the sugar in your child’s foods and drinks, creating a harmful acid. Since the enamel of baby teeth isn’t as strong as permanent teeth, this acid can quickly eat through it.
Try swapping out those sugary snacks for tooth-friendly foods that can improve your child’s oral health as they munch. Foods like yogurt, cheese, crunchy vegetables, and hard-boiled eggs all work to strengthen enamel and protect teeth. Remember, healthy snacks every day keep the cavities away!
Not Enough Water
Did you know that a glass of juice can have just as much sugar as a can of soda? Unfortunately, many popular drinks for kids are full of sugars and acids that are bad for their teeth. Drinking water isn’t just a healthy alternative; it’s a great way to keep your child’s mouth healthy! Most tap water contains fluoride, which strengthens children’s teeth as they develop. Staying hydrated also allows more saliva to wash away any lingering sugars and bacteria throughout the day.
Even though tooth decay is very common in children, it can be prevented. When you encourage healthy habits like the ones above, you help to set your child up for a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles!
About the Author
Dr. Bobby J. Carmen is proud to offer excellent dental healthcare for the whole family. With three children of his own, he understands that specialized and friendly treatment is important as they begin to learn about their oral health. He agrees with the American Dental Association’s recommendation that a child should have their first dental checkup by their first birthday. If you’d like to know more about how to keep your son or daughter’s smile cavity-free, he can be reached at his website or at (405) 364-2200.