Is your child prone to cavities? Cavities are more than an inconvenience- they can cause discomfort and pain, as well as be a sign of an underlying issue.
Why does your child keep getting cavities? Here are a few reasons:
Bacterial Transmission
Cavities could be a sign of a transmittable, bacterial infection. There are types of bacteria produced in the mouth that cause cavities- and that could be transmitted through contact through saliva. This is often the case when sharing food, utensils, toys, or hygiene products with someone- commonly another child- that has tooth decay. Always wash and sanitize toys and objects that your child tries to put in their mouth to prevent transmission.
Daily Diet
The food and beverages that you eat and drink- or that your child eats and drinks- could also be the reason why your child gets cavities. The bacteria that cause cavities feeds-off of sugar- so if your child consumes such foods regularly, they are going to be more susceptible to decay.
Furthermore, carbs contain sugar, so be wary of things like white flour, white rice, potato chips, and pasta, too. Always encourage your child to brush well after eating.
Baby Bottles
If you have not heard, The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry strongly suggests that you do not give children bottles of juice or milk at bedtime to prevent cavities. Milk is comprised of sugars- and nutrients, too- but milk in a bottle can cause cavities through mere exposure. Bottles also interfere with saliva production, so a dry mouth may further contribute to cavities.
Dental Defects
How are your teeth? How about your child’s Dental enamel? If there is an issue or defect with this hard, protective enamel layer, your child’s teeth could be at a greater risk of decay. Issues with enamel could be a genetic issue, and if you have problems with the enamel on your teeth, your child might, too. Talk to your dentist for more information.
Habits & Hygiene
As mentioned, healthy hygiene habits can help keep your child from tooth decay, but what are good habits, exactly? Get your child accustomed to brushing at an early age- before they even have teeth! Rub their gums with a soft, damp cloth after bottles to remove residue. Take your baby to their first dental exam before they turn one or as soon as they get a tooth- whichever occurs first. Teach kids to brush, floss, and rinse after snacks and meals. Modeling good habits is the most effective way to get children on-board, too.
Dry Mouth
Does your child breathe through their mouth? Children that breathe through their mouths when sleeping are more susceptible to cavities. It creates dry mouth, which can contribute to periodontal or gum disease. Dry mouth is when your mouth is devoid of saliva, which is critical for protecting teeth from decay. Your family’s dental provider may refer the child for orthodontic care to resolve the issue, in some cases.
Prevent cavities with good oral hygiene practices and see your dental provider at Old Mt Pleasant Dentistry, in Mt Pleasant, SC, regularly. We are a family dental practice, and we feel that everyone needs to know about oral health and hygiene.
