A Pediatric Dentist Gives Oral Health Tips to Prevent Cavities

Cavities are one of the most common dental issues among children. Cavities develop when bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar, releasing harmful acids that destroy the enamel. Dental cavities can be prevented with good oral hygiene habits and routine visits to the dentist Houston TX 77449.

What Causes Cavities?

While sugar is still a major culprit behind tooth decay, there are other things to watch out for as well. Cavities are often the result of poor oral hygiene and habits like forgetting to brush your teeth before bed or skipping regular dental checkups. By visiting your dentist every six months for dental care for kids Katy, you can prevent many of these issues from occurring in the first place. Not visiting the dentist regularly may put you at a higher risk for gum disease and tooth loss, which can lead to additional problems down the line.

Tips From A Pediatric Dentist About Kids Dental Care Houston TX 77449To Prevent Cavities

Brushing and Flossing

Having a healthy oral hygiene routine is the best way to prevent cavities in your child. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child should brush their teeth twice per day and floss at least one time each day. Also, be sure your child is using fluoride toothpaste and rinsing with fluoridated mouthwash to reduce the chance of developing cavities.

By getting into a routine of brushing and flossing at an early age, your child will understand the importance of good dental hygiene and how to keep their teeth healthy for a lifetime!

Healthy Diet

Good nutrition is essential to maintaining good oral health for kids and the whole family. Many foods contain sugars that feed the bacteria that cause cavities. These bacteria, in turn, produce acid as a byproduct, resulting in the breakdown of tooth enamel. Eating a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and dairy products can help balance the oral environment by reducing the number of disease-causing bacteria and increasing the body’s ability to fight infection.

Regular Dental Visits

The American Dental Association recommends that children see the pediatric dentist Katy TX 77449, around their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. Establishing a good oral hygiene routine early in life is the best way to prevent tooth decay and other oral health problems for your child in the future. A pediatric dentist will be able to monitor your child’s dental health and provide tips on preventing decay and maintaining a healthy smile. Regular visits to the pediatric dentist Katy TX 77449 for cleanings and checkups every six months will also help keep a child’s mouth healthy.

During each appointment, the pediatric dentist Katy TX 77449 will offer the Best dental care Katy TX 77449 - we will perform a thorough cleaning and exam. We will take the time to talk to you and your child about your oral health and how to best care for it at home. We’ll also educate you about the causes of cavities and the steps you can take to prevent them. Additionally, if your child plays sports, we highly recommend that they receive a custom mouthguard. Mouthguards are designed to protect the teeth from injury during athletic activities. They are similar to orthodontic retainers and are custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth for maximum comfort and protection. Many parents opt to have their children’s teeth professionally cleaned twice a year as well. Professional cleaning is a great way to remove any plaque buildup that’s harder to remove at home with brushing and flossing alone.

Sealants

Your child’s molars and premolars have deep pits that trap food particles and allow bacteria to thrive. This leaves them at a higher risk for cavities. Help to keep your child’s mouth healthy by protecting their teeth with sealants.

Our pediatric dentist applies a thin, plastic coating to the biting surface of the back teeth, which are most vulnerable to tooth decay. The sealant material bonds directly to the tooth enamel to provide a protective layer against plaque and acids. This can help to prevent decay and protect your child from needing fillings in the future.

Fluoride Treatments

Your child’s pediatric dentist may recommend fluoride treatments to help prevent tooth decay. Fluoride is a mineral that can help keep tooth enamel strong, which lowers the risk of cavities and decay. Professional fluoride treatments are usually administered in the form of varnish or gel. The fluoride treatments help to remineralize your teeth and prevent plaque buildup. Prescribed toothpaste can also help with preventive dentistry. Ask your child’s pediatric dentist  Katy TX 77449 about the best type of oral care products to use at home to prevent cavities and maintain good oral health!

If it’s time for your child to have a checkup and get an oral exam, contact our dental office for kids dental care Houston TX 77449 and schedule an appointment today!