Concord Pediatric Dentist Outlines How To Prevent Tooth Decay In Children
Childhood tooth decay is a growing problem in developed nations like the United States and Great Britain. This problem is more common even than asthma, and should be prevented whenever possible.
Dental decay can be painful, and cause long term problems for children. Although there are effective ways to treat and reverse childhood tooth decay, prevention is the best strategy.
Why Prevention?
By developing good dietary and oral care habits, children can be spared the physical pain and social problems that accompany tooth decay. Finding effective ways to prevent tooth decay in children can make life much easier for them. With deteriorating teeth, it becomes hard for a child to speak, eat, and concentrate.
This has serious effects. Deteriorating teeth can make it hard for children to pay attention and learn at school. Unsightly teeth or bad breath can also make socializing harder for a child, by leading to problems such as bullying.
How To Prevent Tooth Decay In Children
Tactics for prevention include an effective oral care regime. There are some great resources available to help you devise one. Issues such as diet are also important to consider.
Some basic recommendations are:
- Brush: Children should be brushing twice per day. If your child is between the ages of 2 and 6, supervise while he or she brushes.
- Use fluoride: Your local water supply may already be treated with fluoride. Fluoride makes it harder for bacteria to cause cavities, and protects minerals in the teeth.
- Regular Check-Ups: Professional cleanings are great maintenance for your teeth. It’s also important to see the dentist so that any problems can be caught and reversed early. For pediatric dentist in Concord, you can even contact us.
- Sealants: When the back molars are sealed, bacteria have a harder time attaching to teeth and causing cavities.
- Consider diet: What is your child eating and drinking? Limiting choices like soda and juice, which contain lots of sugar, can help keep teeth healthy.
Steps To Take
If you are concerned about the condition of your child’s teeth and need a pediatric dentist in Concord, contact our office today. We would be happy to help!