In the Know for You to Know

We hear a lot about cavities in children’s teeth. Most of the time the response is “All children have cavities.”

Cavities (aka tooth decay) is common in children. However, if you’ve thought to yourself “Is it normal for children to have cavities?”, you’re not alone.

Today, we’re taking a look at what causes cavities, how to prevent them, and if it really is normal for children to have cavities.

What Is Demineralization?

Did you know that teeth are the only part of the human body that can’t repair itself?

Tooth enamel is the outer most layer of teeth and is made up of specific proteins, crystals, and minerals like calcium and phosphorus.

When teeth are in constant contact with foods which are high in carbohydrates (aka sugars), carbonated beverages (aka soda), and there are longer times (than you would like) between tooth brushings these minerals in enamel begin to breakdown and dissolve.

How Does Demineralization Work?

Everyone has bacteria in their mouths, even newborns.

When the bacteria comes in contact with the yummy sweet foods and drinks they produce an acidic environment in the mouth which causes the tooth enamel to weaken.

Why Is Demineralization Important?

Demineralization is important because the weakened enamel makes children’s teeth more vulnerable to cavities forming.

Cavities grow fast, especially in baby teeth because the enamel is super thin.

This is also important since it’s usually not only 1 cavity that forms. It’s several that form at the same time.

What To Do

We’ve put together some tips for you on taking care of your child’s teeth ~

For Your Newborn, Infant And Baby

Use a clean moist washcloth to wipe their mouths after every feeding and before putting them to bed.

For Your Toddler, Preschooler and Kindergartener

You can also use a clean washcloth twice a day (as you would with a toothbrush) and add a rice grain size (think uncooked grain of rice) amount of fluoride toothpaste. Or if they allow you can use a soft toothbrush, use a rice grain size of fluoride toothpaste and brush for 2 minutes in the AM after breakfast and in the PM floss first and then brush for 2 minutes before bedtime.

For Your School Age Child

Use a soft toothbrush, a pea size (think small green pea) amount of fluoride toothpaste and brush for 2 minutes in the AM after breakfast and in the PM floss first and then brush for 2 minutes before bedtime.

For Your Tween And Teen

Watch them as they use a soft toothbrush, a pea size amount of fluoride toothpaste and brush for 2 minutes in the AM after breakfast and in the PM floss first and then brush for 2 minutes before bedtime.

For Your College Student

You may still need to advise them and make sure they use a soft toothbrush, a larger pea size (think regular green pea size) amount of fluoride toothpaste and brush for 2 minutes in the AM after breakfast and in the PM floss first and then brush for 2 minutes before bedtime.

What’s The Answer?

The good news is that cavities are preventable. With consistent oral care habits, you can reduce the risk of tooth decay for your child.

The key to cavity prevention is to start early. Even before your child’s first tooth comes into their mouth, you can start cleaning their gums with a soft cloth to remove any food and bacteria.

While cavities are a common concern for many parents, the truth is that with proper care, they can largely be prevented.

Do you think cavities are normal for children? How old was your child when you started their oral care routine? What tips do you have that works for your child? Tell us. We’d really like to know! Send us an Email at kidstoothhotline@protonmail.me Like Us on Facebook

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!