Childhood Tooth Decay is formed when bacteria eat away at the outer layer of enamel, affecting infants and children. Sugars and exposed liquid on the gum changes to acid from the bacteria formed in the mouth. The acid dissolves the enamel’s outer layer, leading to tooth decay. This leads to degrading teeth and complications with oral health in later life. If enamel chips away at teeth, this will affect the growth of adult teeth.
Adopting positive oral hygiene and habits, along with regular children dentistry appointments, should begin as soon as the first milk tooth forms. Decay can begin as soon as the child’s first tooth begins to grow. When signs of a white spot on gums appear, treatment will be necessary.
The Five Healthy Habits
Help prevent tooth decay in children by adopting the following healthy habits:
- Brush and Floss Teeth Twice A Day – Keep plaque away from your child’s gums with a soft baby brush and brush teeth with a soft toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste. Flossing is only necessary if milk teeth grow and touch each other. When children form healthy dental routines, milk teeth will continue to stay healthy and allow for adult teeth to grow through a healthy mouth.
- Limit Sugary Treats And Snacks – Sugar is a primary reason for decay forming on teeth. Sugars used in food and drink can change to acid by bacteria. Commonly, parents put children to bed with milk, formula or soft drinks that contain sugars or eating foods that are high in sugars. Clean teeth at night especially when feeding them.
- Replace Fruit Juices With Whole Fruit – Fruit juice may contain traces of fibre through fruit ingredients, but it also contains sugars that decay teeth. Consider using whole fruits and vegetables as a drink with no sweeteners. There’s a lack of nutrition from fruit drinks.
- Teach Your Child To Drink From A Regular Cup – When your child hits the age of 12 to 15 months, consider using a regular drinking cup instead of bottles. Frequent bottle-feedings increase the chances of tooth decay.
- Encourage Healthy Eating – At an early age, it is important that as part of children’s meals that you encourage healthy eating. Provide foods that are nutritious along with foods that children will like to provide a balance. Foods such as vegetables, whole grain and yogurts are good for milk teeth. These foods guard against plaque, heightening chances of tooth decay.
Read here to learn how a check-up and clean can limit chances of tooth decay
Tooth decay can be prevented. Food and drink consumed by children are integral to maintaining strong and healthy teeth and these tips will go a long way in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Any signs of decay require immediate assistance and treatment from the dentist.
If you or your child need immediate assistance with decay concerns, contact Kooringal Dental in Wagga Wagga immediately and book your appointment with us now. Click here to book!
