In the Know for You to Know

Have you ever had a cavity? Even a small one?

Growing up it seemed that at every dental check-up I had another cavity. My parents didn’t know why. Doesn’t everyone have cavities?

During dental school the whole issue around cavities became clear. Then when I became a pediatric dentist it became crystal clear. There wasn’t only one thing that caused cavities. It’s a cycle. A never ending daily cycle.

I want to share with you how you can help protect your child’s teeth.

Protecting Your Child’s Teeth From Cavities

1. Baby teeth are important for 4 BIG reasons. They help your child learn where to put their tongue and cheeks so they can speak clearly, allow them to chew their food well, help in the growth of their jaws, and guide their adult teeth into position.
2. Children can get cavities from their bottle or from nursing. Yes, even if they don’t have teeth yet. Don’t put your child to bed with a bottle or nurse them while they are sleeping. The liquid in the bottle or breast milk causes cavities because it stays on their gums and teeth. This allows the sugar in the milk, juice, breast milk to eat away at their teeth. So it’s important to wipe their gums and teeth with a damp wash cloth after each feeding and before nap and bed time.
3. As soon as your child’s first tooth peaks through their gums it’s time to do 2 things. Make their first dental appointment. Start brushing with a (dry) rice grain size amount of fluoridated toothpaste twice a day.
4. For your pre-K child (over 3 years old) brush twice a day with a pea size amount of fluoride toothpaste. When 2 teeth are touching, it’s time to start flossing.
5. Sealants are effective in preventing cavities. Dental sealants are a protective coating over the deep crevices of back teeth (aka molars) so food, sweets, beverages and plaque don’t get caught in the grooves.

What To Remember

Don’t leave your child’s oral health up to genetics or luck. It’s not luck that contributes to good teeth. It’s about planning, consistency and adapting as your child grows.

With everything you have to do, it may be tempting to skip a day. Turns out diligence is the key.

What are your tips for keeping teeth cavity free? Do you have a routine that works for your family? Tell Us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us on Facebook

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