National Children’s Dental Health Month
According to the CDC, Tooth decay (cavity) is one of the most common chronic diseases of early childhood even though it is preventable.
Cavities occur when a buildup of dental plaque “eats” at tooth enamel causing a hole in the tooth to form. Plaque is a sticky substance that covers the teeth, and it is formed when bacteria in the moth combines with food and saliva.
Tips to decrease risk of cavities include:
· Brushing twice a day for at least 2 minutes to prevent a buildup of plaque. Children under the age of 6 should be supervised by an adult to maximize efficiency.
· Parents should refrain from putting infants approximately 6 months of age and older to bed with bottles filled with milk, formula or juice. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, most children who are seven or eight months of age no longer need to feed during the night. If your child must have a bottle to sleep, slowly dilute the milk or juice with water over a few weeks until your child is only drinking water.
· Parents should encourage a diet for their children that is low in sugar and refined carbohydrates and increase fresh veggies, fruit and protein intake.
· Schedule regular Dental Checkups. Dental exams are scheduled every 6 months. At each visit, the dentist will look for any signs of regular tooth decay, remove dental plaque and apply fluoride which can reverse and stop early decay in children.
· Having your dentist apply Dental Sealants. Dental Sealants are plastic coatings that are usually placed on the chewing (top) surface of the permanent back teeth to help protect them from decay.
Poor oral health, including cavities and infections, can have a lifelong impact on a child. If you have any questions or concerns about cavity prevention, please contact our Dental Providers at Open Health Care Clinic.
Tamma Gray, DDS