Fight Childhood Tooth Decay with Your Charlotte NC Pediatric Dentist
Part of your responsibility as a parent includes working to identify and prevent anything could pose a risk to your child’s wellbeing. Cavities are at the top of the list for the most common diseases worldwide that impact children’s health. The population of germs that reside in the mouth can increase and release acids that are damaging to the teeth. Find out if you and your child are taking the right steps to avoid cavities, and then visit a pediatric dental office in Charlotte NC:
- Visible spots (white or dark) or holes on the teeth?
- Fillings or dental crowns recently (2 years or less)?
- Visible plaque (a thick film full of germs that can appear to be stuck-on food) on the gums or teeth?
- Within the last year, have any family members been diagnosed with a cavity? (Tooth decay bacteria can be spread amongst family members.)
- Frequent snacking, more than 3 times each day, in addition to regular meals? (foods that are starchy can cause as many cavities as sweets)
- Dry mouth, mouth breather?
- Orthodontic appliances such as space maintainers, braces, retainers?
Answering “yes” to even one of the previous questions is an indication that your child (or you!) may have an elevated risk for cavities. It’s possible to reduce this risk by changing your family’s daily habits and scheduling a Charlotte NC pediatric dental appointment within the next 6 months. Below, you’ll find more tips for warding off tooth decay:
- Use fluoride or training toothpaste at least 2 times daily for brushing, followed by flossing.
- Rinse with a mouthwash that contains fluoride each day.
- Daily exposure to fluoridated community water supply (either at home, daycare, or school).
- Visit the dentist regularly for checkups and preventive care.
- Choose candies and snacks that are sugar-free and sweetened with xylitol (an ingredient that prevents the formation of plaque and cavities).