Tooth decay and cavities are a significant issue for children of all ages. By the age of 20, 90% of people have had at least one cavity.[1] You may wonder what you can do to prevent tooth decay in your child. Try these essential tips to build a solid foundation for your child’s oral health from a trusted “pediatric dentist near me” in Albion, NY.
Always Stick to an Oral Hygiene Routine
Oral hygiene can only be effective at home when routines are followed carefully. However, keeping your child on their routine can be a significant challenge and is one of the most common obstacles parents face.
Ensure you don’t allow for lapses in the routine to make things easier. It’s much easier to fall off than to get back on, so make sure that disruptions in schedules or unexpected circumstances don’t mean skipping out on brushing.
Make Sure They’re Brushing Properly
The technique is also crucial when it comes to brushing properly. Your child should brush twice daily to ensure they’re sufficiently protected against tooth decay and gum disease. Flossing is introduced once permanent teeth are in.
Brushing harder or faster doesn’t produce results. In fact, it can damage your child’s teeth. Instead, focus on having your child brush for four minutes each time, using options such as timers or music to keep track. Ensure they’re brushing in an up-and-down or circular motion, not back-and-forth, and reaching all their teeth.
Lead by Example With Your Oral Hygiene
One of the most effective ways to impress the importance of oral hygiene and dental care on your child is to follow through with it yourself. If your child sees that you aren’t keeping up with oral hygiene, why should they?
If you usually brush at night after your child has gone to bed, consider moving your brushing earlier so they can see you practicing what you preach.
Keep Up With Routine Dentist Appointments
Preventive pediatric dentistry is necessary to ensure proper oral health and development. Your child should visit the dentist every six months for a dental examination and teeth cleaning. This lets your dentist spot any potential issues early and fight plaque and tartar that cause tooth decay.
Missing appointments can allow more serious issues to develop unseen. Instead of a simple filling, your child might need a root canal. Routine visits also build familiarity with the dentist and confidence in your child. This helps them create a solid foundation for lifelong oral health.
Opt for Additional Treatments to Protect Their Smile
In most cases, your dentist will likely recommend fluoride treatment simultaneously with your child’s routine visit. This effective treatment helps prevent cavities and tooth decay by aiding in the remineralization process. As minerals wear away and enamel weakens, fluoride helps the natural repair process.
Dental sealants are another potential option. A thin layer of composite resin, similar to tooth-colored fillings, is applied to the chewing surface of the back teeth. This is typically the most cavity-prone area for children. Dental sealants take just minutes to use and can reduce the risk of cavities for up to two years.
Take a Closer Look at Their Diet
Diet has a significant impact on dental health. Ideally, you should minimize any snacks or foods that damage teeth excessively. Foods rich in sugar, sticky, or highly acidic are often the most severe threats, with common examples being candy and soda.
Instead, focus on snacks that can support oral health. Fresh-cut vegetables are among the best options. Not only are they full of vitamins and minerals that support healthy development, but their high fiber and water content help scrub away bits of food left behind on teeth.
Where Can I Find a Skilled Pediatric Dentist Near Me?
These tips can help ensure healthy smiles for the whole family. Of course, every child is unique, so it’s essential to find a pediatric dentist who can provide personalized care and guidance.
If you’re searching for a “pediatric dentist near me,” look no further than Albion Family Dental. We provide a full range of pediatric dental services to support your child’s health and development. Schedule your child’s next dental visit today to learn more. Call us at 585-589-9044.
Sources:
[1] https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/fast-facts/cavities/index.html