How Can I Prevent My Child From Early Childhood Cavities?

Every parent wants their baby’s first smile healthy and beautiful. One of the crucial things that you can do for your child’s dental health is to prevent cavities before they get too big. Some of you might be wondering, “Tooth decay? Babies?” Yes, kids can also get cavities.

It is thought that more than 25% of kids between the ages of 2 and 5 already have some tooth decay. Bacteria that cause cavities use the sugar and starches we eat to make acids. These acids destroy the tooth enamel, breaking down its hard mineral structure until cavities form.

Azle Pediatric Dentist describes that baby teeth are more likely to get cavities than adult teeth because their enamel coats are not as thick. By taking care of your child’s teeth during their first year, you can help them have a lifetime of good smiles. Let’s see how you can help.

Azle Pediatric Dentist’s Tips for Childhood Cavities Prevention

Here are the tips suggested by Azle Pediatric Dentist in Texas, that can help you prevent any type of cavities and oral health problems in your kids.

#1 Do not spread germs

Azle Pediatric Dentist says that you shouldn’t share a spoon with your baby or put a pacifier in your mouth to clean it because germs that cause cavities can be passed from person to person. Also, it’s smart to wash toys that have been played with by other kids in clean water before giving them to your child.

#2 Do not lay bottles on the bed

Babies usually need to be fed before bed to make sure their growing bodies get all the food they need. But when a baby sleeps with a bottle, liquids pool in the mouth. It means that tiny teeth are exposed to these liquids all night, and saliva can’t wash away food bits as it should.

Say good night to your child with a song, a bedtime story, a kiss, or anything else that makes them feel safe and loved. Keep the bottle away from the reach of your kid or take it with you while leaving the room. It can help prevent your child’s dental hygiene.

#3 Keep your child away from sugary drinks

How can parents ensure their kids get the food they need without feeding cavities causing bacteria the food they need? With a good food plan. Breast milk and formula contain healthy nutrients, carbohydrates, and sugars that babies need to grow and develop.

Do not let them drink sugary drinks like soda or juice. Mouth bugs that cause cavities love added sugars, and the more your child consumes them during the day, the higher the risk of tooth decay. Talk to Azle Pediatric Dentist about what drinks are best for your baby.

#4 Brush and floss your baby’s teeth and gums

Azle Pediatric Dentist recommends cleaning your baby’s gums even before they get teeth. After washing your hands, wipe the gums gently with a clean, damp, soft cloth or gauze pad to get rid of germs and food.

Gentle brushing should begin as soon as the first tooth comes in. A baby-sized toothbrush should be used to gently clean the new teeth once in the morning and once after the last meal of the day. When two baby teeth meet, it’s time to start flossing.

Not sure which toothpastes, tooth care items, and techniques are safe for babies? See Azle Pediatric Dentist! They can guide you on how to clean gums on babies, when to start using fluoride toothpaste, how much toothpaste to use when to brush, and when to start flossing.

#5 Plan a dental visit for your kid

The best time for your kid to come to the Azle Pediatric Dentist office for the first time is between the time they get their first tooth and their first birthday. It’s an excellent way to meet the dentist staff who will be taking care of your child’s teeth for years to come.

During the first visit, the doctor will check your kid’s teeth and jaw growth. They will also check for plaque buildup and early signs of damage, like white spots on tooth enamel, in a way that is safe for kids.

If you want to keep their teeth and gums healthy, you can discuss any worries you have and learn the best ways to prevent cavities. Their tips can help you in your kids’ early cavity prevention.

Final Thoughts

Why is it important to care so much about baby teeth? Tooth decay can hurt and make your kid feel bad about himself. Plus, those little teeth do a lot of important things. Your child’s speech will change as they get their baby teeth. These teeth help eat and chew in a good way.

As your child grows up, their adult teeth will be able to come in just where their baby teeth left off. That first smile your baby gives you is so sweet. Azle Pediatric Dentist says that by taking care of your child’s teeth early on, you set them up for a lifetime of good smiles.