How can I protect my child from tooth decay?

Tooth decay doesn’t affect only adults. Tooth decay occurs in toddlers when bacteria within the mouth begin to eat away at the primary teeth. Tooth decay is also known as a cavity or dental caries. Inadequate dental care and not brushing your child’s teeth enough can be causes of decay.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), a common cause of toddler tooth decay is going to bed with a bottle. This particular condition is known as baby bottle tooth decay. The milk or juice from the bottle can sit in your tot’s mouth all night and create an ideal breeding ground for bacteria.

Tooth decay is the breakdown, or destruction, of tooth enamel. Enamel is the hard outer surface of a tooth. Tooth decay can lead to cavities. These are holes in the teeth.

To ensure your child’s teeth are and stay healthy here are few tips to follow:

• You should not let your child go to bed with a bottle of milk or juice.
• Always choose water to give your child before bedtime
• Promote and model brushing their teeth after the last meal before sleeping
• Prevent the transfer of bacteria from your mouth to your child’s. Don’t share eating utensils. And don’t clean your baby’s pacifier with your saliva.
• Make sure you brush with a soft-bristled brush at least twice per day and floss your child’s teeth daily and use fluoride toothpaste
• Promote healthy eating habits at home and encourage your child to drink fluoridated water.
• Avoid sugary foods and foods that are high in acid
• Take your child for their first dental visit no later than the age one and keep up with regular check-ups at least once a year.
• Ask your dentist about applying dental sealants to chewing surfaces of your child’s teeth. This way you can help your child keep out the germs and food that causes decay.

Tooth decay can lead to nights of pain, poor school performance and in some children, behavioural issues. Following the above tips can help children avoid infections and the loss of a tooth.

Teaching your child good dental hygiene early on will prevent bad breath, toothaches and gum diseases.

Part of that daily routine should be:

• Brushing your child’s teeth at least twice a day using a fluoride-containing toothpaste is a good place to start.
• Try to floss your child’s teeth at least once a day as this removes food particles and plaque that may accumulate between their teeth. If your child is older, they should try flossing themselves.
• Brushing their tongue – That’s where mouth bacteria love to grow. Use a toothbrush with an inbuilt tongue cleaner for ease of catching them all.
• Keeping hydrated – Encouraging your child to drink lots of water will not just benefit their overall health, but also their oral health. Adequate saliva production is necessary for a healthy mouth.
• Change their toothbrush regularly – It is vital to replace your toothbrush after the bristles become frayed or after every three to four months.
• Regular dental check-ups – It is important to visit your dentist with your child on a regular basis at least twice a year. Your child will become more comfortable with having their teeth examined and cleaned for plaques and bacteria accumulation. Dental phobia can also be prevented.

To book your child’s appointment for a dental check-up at our clinic, feel free to contact us on 020 3355 0552. You may also leave us an email at info@muswellhillsmile.co.uk and we shall get back to you in no time.