No sugar bugs here : How to prevent decay in your toddlers mouth!
Preventing tooth decay in toddlers can help them later in life.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) estimates that by age four almost 25% of children have, or have had, a cavity. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth fed by sugar, flourish and destroy the enamel of the teeth. Poor brushing habits and a sugary diet can contribute to tooth decay.
Tooth decay in toddlers is a real problem because they lack the coordination to brush their teeth thoroughly on their own and naturally have a diet that is higher in sugars compared to adults. Some toddlers can be picky eaters and these dietary restrictions can make for a limited diet full of starchy, sugary foods.
Here are some tips to prevent early childhood tooth decay:
1. VISIT THE DENTIST
Have your baby’s mouth examined at the appearance of the first tooth or by their first birthday (whichever comes first). Dentists and dental hygienists are trained to look for early signs of tooth decay and can have important discussions about nutrition. They will also discuss the tools that are best to clean your little ones’ teeth.
2. KEEP CLEAN AT HOME
Start cleaning your infant’s mouth after each feeding by wiping gums with a soft cloth. No solids and no teeth doesn’t mean cleaning is not important. Keeping the pH of the mouth balanced is important even in the absence of teeth.
3. CAN THE BEDTIME BOTTLES
Don’t let your baby or toddler go to bed with a bottle, a sippy cup of juice, or milk. Sugars bathe the teeth and alter oral pH. If left to sit all night, can cause baby bottle tooth decay.
4. CREATE GOOD DIET HABITS
Limit foods that are acidic, starchy, sticky, or sugary. Examples include are oranges, soft cheeses, fruit snacks, and cookies. While they can all be enjoyed in moderation, these foods can erode tooth enamel or stick to teeth, allowing the bacteria-eating sugar to eat through tooth enamel.
5. LET THE BRUSHING BEGIN
Help your child brush their teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush specially made for a child’s smaller mouth. You should help them brush twice a day for two minutes while holding the brush at a 45-degree angle. If your child will tolerate an electric toothbrush, then go for it!
6. INTRODUCE FLUORIDE WHEN APPROPRIATE
Avoid using a fluoridated toothpaste until your little one is two years old or able to spit without swallowing fluoridated toothpaste. Children under two should use a rice-sized strip of toothpaste. For older children, a pea-sized amount is appropriate.
What do you do if, despite your best efforts, your child develops a cavity?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends restoring a decayed tooth with a filling or a small crown and waiting for the tooth to fall out on schedule. This will prevent the bacteria from spreading to other teeth, growing decay on an unerupted tooth.
A severely decayed tooth may have to be extracted, but this is avoided if possible because baby teeth hold the place for unerupted adult teeth and help the jaw develop in its proper position.
As a parent, lay groundwork for your child’s diet and oral hygiene habits for the rest of their life. Establishing good oral health habits at an early age will prevent tooth decay in their baby teeth and the habits your child learns will stick with them throughout their life.
With a proper dental home and guidance from a dentist, you can help your child go from childhood to adolescence without ever having to hear the buzz of a dentist’s drill.
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