Did you know that cavities are the most common chronic disease of childhood in the United States? While this statistic may be alarming, the good news is that tooth decay is largely preventable. At Oasis Family Dental in Maywood, New Jersey, Niyati Sheth, DDS, and our team are passionate about helping our youngest patients build a foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Here are seven easy ways you can help reduce your child's risk of cavities.
Consistent daily habits are your first line of defense against cavities. By teaching your child the importance of oral hygiene from a young age, you're empowering them with the tools they need to maintain a healthy smile.
Start cleaning your baby's gums with a soft cloth even before their first tooth appears. Once the first tooth erupts, begin brushing twice a day with a rice-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste. For children ages 3 and older, you can increase this to a pea-sized amount. Don't forget to start flossing as soon as your child has two teeth that touch.
Young children lack the coordination to brush their teeth effectively on their own. It's important to supervise their brushing until they are around 6 years old to ensure they are cleaning all surfaces of their teeth and spitting out the toothpaste.
What your child eats and drinks plays a significant role in their oral health. The bacteria in our mouths feed on sugars and starches, producing acids that can eat away at tooth enamel and cause cavities.
Foods like candy, cookies, and chips are obvious culprits, but be mindful of other sugary snacks like fruit snacks and granola bars. Sticky foods are particularly problematic as they cling to teeth, prolonging the acid attack.
Encourage your child to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Healthy snacks like apples, carrots, and cheese can actually help clean teeth and neutralize harmful acids.
Water, especially fluoridated water, is the best beverage for your child's teeth. It helps rinse away food particles and bacteria and keeps your child hydrated, which is essential for saliva production.
Regular professional dental care is crucial for preventing cavities and addressing any issues before they become more serious. We are your partners in your child's oral health journey.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have their first dental visit by their first birthday. After that, regular check-ups every six months allow us to monitor your child's oral development, provide professional cleanings, and offer personalized advice.
Dr. Sheth may recommend preventive treatments like fluoride varnish or dental sealants to give your child an extra layer of protection against cavities. Dental sealants are a thin, protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, where most childhood cavities occur.
At Oasis Family Dental, we're committed to providing comprehensive, compassionate care for your entire family. To learn more about protecting your child's smile or to schedule an appointment, call our Maywood, New Jersey, office or book online today.
