Preventing Tooth Decay In Young Children

It is shocking how many young children have more than 5 cavities by the time they are school age. Good dental hygiene is important at any age, but starting our children out at a young age developing good dental care habits is important for their future dental health. Habits started while we are young tend to stick with us into our adulthood. Parents who make brushing something that is fun and an encouraged part of their daily routine can expect their youngsters to continue good brushing habits as they age. Parents should also know that when they model good brushing habits, their children are more likely to respond favorably to establishing good dental habits themselves. Young children love to copy what they see their parents doing. Allow your child to see you brushing your teeth. Don’t be surprised how much of an influence you have on your little one. Children learn through imitation.

There are many steps you can take to help prevent dental decay from forming in your child’s mouth. These steps are simple to do and are easy to implement into your daily routine.

Step 1 – Limit the sugar in your child’s diet by choosing foods and drinks carefully. Check labels before purchasing for sugar content. Look for these hidden sugars on the label: Sucrose, glucose, fructose, maltose and syrup

Step 2 – Limit sweets to special occasions instead of allowing children to consume them daily.

Step 3 – Offer snacks that are dental friendly like: cheese, fruit, raw vegetables, or nuts for children that are older. Offer milk (after 12 months) or water over soda or juice choices. Many packaged juices are high in sugar content, so check labels.

Step 4 – Never give a baby a bottle containing juice or milk to sleep with.

Step 5 – It is a bad idea to dip your baby’s pacifier in honey or sugar

Step 6 – Our children are not born with “a sweet tooth” this is encouraged by the foods and beverages that we offer them. Choose your food options wisely right from the start and you will be helping your child to develop the ability to make good food choices that will last a lifetime.

Step 7 – Limit carbonated drinks. In 2002 a study showed that 45% of young children suffered erosion of tooth enamel with 19% having severe erosion that involved the dentine layer of the tooth. A contributing cause was determined through research to be the consumption of carbonated or (fizzy) beverages.

Step 8 – Encourage regular brushing times: upon rising, after meals, and as part of the bedtime routine.

Step 9 – Show your young child how to floss using kid-friendly floss. Your dental hygienist can help your child learn how to floss correctly.

Step 10 – Check with your dental office for the recommended schedule of visits and be sure that you make these appointments for your child. Your dentist and his/her staff are partners with you in keeping your child’s teeth healthy. Make sure you ask questions and ask for help forming good dental habits at an early age.