How to Save Kids’ Teeth from a Cavity?

Cavities are one of the most frequent dental issues affecting children; however, we can generally avoid them.  If you visit a dentist in Red Deer and learn what causes cavities in children’s teeth and take the appropriate steps to help protect your child’s smile, we can ensure your child will have strong, healthy teeth in the future.

 What Causes Cavities in Baby Teeth? 

Cavities (tooth decay) are caused by bacteria in the mouth that eat leftover food and create acid, which weakens the tooth enamel. Because their teeth are newly emerged and thinner, baby teeth are more vulnerable to cavities than adult teeth. Some common causes of cavities include:

• Sugary food or drinks—Eating candy, drinking juice and eating sweetened snacks often (like between meals) increases the chances of cavities.
• Poor brushing—If the teeth aren’t brushed and flossed, plaque can form quickly.
• Bedtime bottles—If a child goes to bed with a bottle of milk or juice, dental issues can happen overnight by coating teeth in sugar.
• Lack of fluoride—Fluoride is essential to strengthen enamel.  Without adequate fluoride, a dentition is more susceptible to decay.

Why are Baby Teeth so Important?

Some parents believe cavities in their baby teeth aren’t serious because eventually, they fall out. But baby teeth are a big part of your child’s health and development. They:

• Assist children in chewing correctly and receiving proper nutrition.
• Space for permanent teeth, positioning them properly.
• Aid in speech production and smiling confidence.
• Cavities that are not filled can cause pain, infection, and issues with permanent teeth.

How Can You Prevent Cavities in Children?

Keeping your child’s smile healthy does not have to be difficult. Here are some simple ways to help your child maintain a beautiful smile:

1. Get your child started with good brushing and flossing habits. 

• Every morning and every night, use a soft-bristle toothbrush and help your child brush twice and spend 2 minutes performing the task. Use about a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. 
• Twice a day is ideal for brushing. Brushing only once is better than not brushing at all. 
• Teach kids to floss once a day. Flossing is important because it cleans areas between teeth that brushing cannot reach. 

2. Limit their sugar intake.

• Limit sodas and juice for snack occasions only. 
• Encourage more water, fruits, and vegetables. 
• Encourage rinsing with water after meals. 

3. Regular checkups and cleaning appointments. 

Regular or routine checkups and cleaning appointments are important because they will help catch cavities in their early stages of development. From the dental professional, you will also have a professional cleaning and a fluoride treatment, which will keep those little teeth strong.

4. Discuss if they should have dental sealants applied. 

Dental sealants are thin protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars. Sealants act as a barrier and keep food and bacteria from settling in tiny grooves where cavities typically begin. 

When Should My Child See the Dentist?

Most experts recommend that they visit a dentist no later than their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth erupts. Visiting a child-friendly dental clinic near you in Red Deer will familiarize your child with receiving dental care and allow parents to learn good habits to care for small teeth at home.

Schedule an appointment if you notice:

• White or brown spots on teeth. 
• Sensitivity or pain in a tooth. 
• Swelling or redness in the gums.

What if Your Child Already has a Cavity?

First of all, take a deep breath. If your child has a cavity, don’t be worried. Dentists have various ways to help get your child’s smile back, including: 

• • Dental fillings—Repair the hole from decay. 
• • Fluoride Treatment—Stop early decay and strengthen enamel. 
• • Crowns—Cover and protect a tooth if there is a lot of damage. 

The earlier you treat cavities, the less likely your child is to suffer pain, infection, or more extensive treatment. 

Keep Kids Smiling Strong at Parkland Mall Dental Centre

When it comes to healthy smiles, prevention and care are where it all begins. At Parkland Mall Dental Centre, we see kids and families for routine checkups, cleanings, and treatments that make their cavities less likely. Our team is happy to help if you have any concerns about your child’s dental health or would simply like some direction on good oral care.

Protect your child’s smile today. Schedule your visit to Parkland Mall Dental Centre. Let us help you set your child and family on a path to building good habits and creating a confident smile that lasts for life.