Brushing and flossing daily is very important, and this must be part of your daily hygiene routine. This is not always easy for kids, but you must establish a proper oral hygiene routine to prevent cavities. When bacteria and food are left on the teeth, the acid will collect on the tooth, which will soften its enamel until a cavity forms.
Certain steps will prevent cavities from forming, so make sure you help your children by doing the following:
1. Introduce them to good oral habits early on
You must teach your kids the importance of good oral habits early to incorporate them into their everyday routine. Talk to them about oral health and how it affects their overall health, and make brushing a part of your family routine. Teach your kids to brush twice a day using fluoride toothpaste, and make sure you also teach them about the importance of flossing.
2. Make sure they get enough fluoride
The regular use of fluoride will toughen the enamel, which will make it harder for acid to penetrate. Most toothpaste contains fluoride, but this alone cannot fully protect your child’s teeth, and fluoridated water is also vital. You do, however, have to be careful as too much fluoride can lead to tooth discoloration, so you need to make sure your child gets the right amount.
3. Avoid certain foods or limit consumption
Treats are okay occasionally, but excessive amounts of sugar can erode enamel and cause cavities. Juices, candy and soda, are examples of sugary foods, and if your child consumes any of these, they need to rinse their mouth or brush their teeth to wash away the sugar. This is also true for sweetened liquid medicines, so make sure your child brushes their teeth to wash away this sugar. Sugar is very bad for teeth, and most kids love treats and desserts, so you have to limit these foods and serve them in moderation.
It’s also important to note that if you are prone to tooth decay or gum disease, your kids will be at a higher risk, so in these cases, even the best brushing and flossing habits may not be able to prevent a cavity. If your child ever complains about tooth pain, it may be a sign of a cavity—contact your dentist right away to ensure your child receives the treatment they need.
The importance of regular checkups cannot be emphasized enough, and the combination of regular dental visits and a sound dental hygiene routine will help prevent the need for extensive dental work. The experts at KR Dental will help your children maintain their beautiful smiles, and we will ensure their teeth and gums are healthy so if you have any questions or require additional information, contact our clinic today at (289) 275-4050.