Parents may believe that now that the winter holidays are over, they don’t have to be as concerned about their children’s sweets consumption. This does not, however, rule out the possibility that your children’s oral health will be harmed by cavities.
Cavities, also known as caries, are a condition caused by the build-up of germs on and around the teeth that results in tooth decay. Children are more likely to acquire cavities as soon as their first tooth erupts, which occurs between the ages of six months and one year, according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality In the United States, tooth decay is also one of the most common health problems among youngsters.
Our Las Vegas Paediatric Dentist at The Kids Dentist wants to give parents valuable information and resources for managing their child’s dental health. Every young patient should know that we care about them not just in the clinic, but also at home. We consider this to be accomplished by giving visitors with all of the knowledge and tools they need in order to practice good tooth hygiene on a daily basis.
We’ve compiled a list of the top four recommendations — along with brushing and flossing — to help your child avoid cavities in this post. Making these rules a part of your regular routine will guarantee that the next time your youngster comes in for a checkup, their health report is just as clean as their smile!
Tip #1: Eat foods that are good for your teeth.
Did you know that certain meals might help your teeth stay healthy? When it comes to dental care, what you eat on a daily basis is just as important as what you try to avoid.
Next time you or your spouse goes grocery shopping, pick up some tooth-friendly items. Fiber-rich fruits and veggies, such as apples, oranges, bananas, and leafy greens, beans, and Brussels sprouts are examples of these nutrients.
Foods rich in calcium are another fantastic cavity-fighting option. Calcium is found in dairy products, cheese, yogurt, and milk, among other things. Certain fish species, raisins, sesame seeds, kale, Cheerios, and even tofu are all healthy and delicious ways to keep your child full without making them feel deprived.
At mealtimes, serve a turkey or vegetable sandwich on whole-grain bread instead of refined white bread with PB+J. Snacks like apple slices with peanut butter or carrot sticks are both delicious.
Tip #2: Find out if your child is at risk for cavities.
Even if your youngster has never had a cavity, he or she may still be vulnerable to developing one as they grow older and their food preferences and activities diversify. All youngsters should visit a dentist before the age of one, According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, and there is no better method than a comprehensive dental exam to detect whether your child is at risk of cavities.
The Kids Dentist of Las Vegas focuses on this sort of evaluation, and we are pleased to have assisted hundreds of families in the Las Vegas region avoid the discomfort and expense of tooth decay by implementing preventive measures.
If you schedule a paediatric dental visit with us, you can expect your child’s full professional examination to include the following:
- X-rays of the teeth taken with a digital camera
- Getting rid of stains and deposits
- Cleaning techniques will be demonstrated.
- Treatment and supplementation recommendations based on a physical examination of the mouth and gums
Tip #3: If at all possible, avoid using a bottle.
You’re either going to start or have already started weaning your child if he or she is under the age of two.. Make it a goal to offer your youngster beverages (other than formula or breast milk) in an open cup rather than a bottle, whether you’re going for weaning or not. This procedure should begin at around the age of 12 months.
Children who are weaned too late or who rely too heavily on bottle-feeding are more prone to eat sugary juices and beverages in larger quantities. As a result, cavities and tooth decay are more common in children!
Tip #4: Make tooth brushing more enjoyable!
It’s critical that youngsters feel involved in the decision-making process as they learn how to best care for their teeth. Although the level of participation varies depending on the parenting style and the needs of the particular child, there are a few general tactics for getting youngsters excited about brushing and flossing.
To begin, ensure that your child assists in selecting their toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash. If the brush handle is a favorite color or the toothpaste has a favorite character on it, the child is far more likely to use these things on a regular basis and to feel good about it.
Brush with your children throughout the early stages of habit development to demonstrate good technique and ensure that they are cleaning their teeth for at least 2 minutes.
Some parents believe that implementing a little reward system benefits their children. Make a deal with your child that if they keep their teeth clean for a week, say every night at 8 p.m. — you’ll give them something they want. A glittering sticker, a round of their favorite board game, or a few additional minutes on the swing could be used as incentives.
Similarly, the anxiety that often occurs prior to a first-time dentist visit might be alleviated by a post-appointment activity such as a trip to the zoo or a showing of the latest animated film.
Whether you incorporate all four of these ideas into your child’s dental care regimen or just one, you’ll see a difference in their oral health. Make an appointment with us by contacting our Las Vegas office at 702-454-1008 to learn more, ask questions, and/or voice concerns.