baby teeth

Help Your Child Avoid Tooth Decay

As a parent, you do everything within your power to help your child. You teach them things like how to read and write and to practice good manners. You can also help your child avoid tooth decay which adversely impacts their dental development.

Tooth decay is a bacterial infection which destroys dental tissue. If tooth decay goes untreated it can ultimately lead to the loss of teeth. Even a baby tooth which will fall out is susceptible to decay and should not be ignored. Preventing tooth decay and treating it quickly is one of the top priorities for your child’s oral health.

Practice good oral hygiene early

The best thing you can do to help your child avoid tooth decay is to brush your child’s teeth daily. As soon as your child’s teeth begin to appear start brushing and flossing. And even before their teeth appear, wipe your child’s gums with a damp cloth after nursing to prevent bad bacteria from living in their mouth.

Visit a dentist early

Kids should have a good number of teeth by the time they turn one. We recommend scheduling your first appoint with Dr. Rizza at this time. A dentist will be able to catch any immediate dental issues at this time, as well as assist your plaque removal efforts. Early dental visits will also help prevent any dental anxiety as your child grows up.

Eliminate sugar

Bacteria which causes tooth decay loves sugar. Limit your child’s sugar intake and limit the risk of decay. Restricting sugary snacks is a good first step, but you should also pay attention to what is in your baby’s bottle. Juice, milk, and formula all contain sugars. If your baby needs a bottle to sleep, consider filling it with water to help prevent dental decay.