Tooth decay is one of the most widespread and easily prevented dental issues that affect children’s oral health. As experienced dentists in Baldivis for children, our dental practice understands just how much a healthy daily routine can influence your child’s dental development in the long run. In this article, we will talk about what all parents in Baldivis should be aware of when it comes to preventing tooth decay in their kids.
Why Do Cavities Affect Children So Often?
Firstly, children’s teeth are more susceptible to tooth decay than adult ones. This is due to the thinner enamel layer of their teeth, meaning that acids secreted by bacteria can cause tooth decay very fast. Secondly, sugar-filled drinks and snacks, not always adhering to brushing teeth on time, contribute to the development of cavities.However, cavities in Baldivis can be easily prevented.
1. Visit the Children Dentist in Baldivis Early – Before First Birthday
One of the best things you can do for your kid is to take them to the pediatric dentist in Baldivis once their first tooth emerges, or before their first birthday – whatever happens first. An early visit will allow us to:
- Check your child’s teeth development
- Detect early decay in the teeth
- Advise about brushing techniques and healthy diet
- Help children get used to dental check-ups from an early age
Regular visits from an early age will create positive feelings towards dentistry that will last them a lifetime.
2. Brush Twice a Day Using Fluoride Toothpaste
Brushing is the foundation of preventing cavities in baby teeth. Here are our recommendations regarding brushing at different ages:
- Until 18 months old: Use a damp cloth or an infant toothbrush without any toothpaste
- From 18 months until 6 years old: Use low-fluoride toothpaste in small quantity
- From 6 years old: Use normal fluoride toothpaste and supervise your children while brushing
Remember to brush teeth for at least two minutes per session.
3. Flossing Begins When Teeth Touch Each Other
Once there are teeth touching each other in the mouth, begin flossing as food particles and plaque in this area are impossible to reach even with a toothbrush. Flossing is also the best way to avoid cavities in children. Help your child learn flossing until he/she becomes dexterous enough to be able to do it without assistance – usually from 8-10 years old.
4. Watch What Your Child Eats and Drinks
Your diet greatly affects the development of your kid’s oral hygiene. One of the common discussions with the parent in our children’s dentistry in Baldivis concerns sugar hidden in various products eaten and drunk by children.
Products to limit:
- Lolly, chocolate and sweets
- Juices and sodas, even so-called natural ones
- Dried fruits (highly concentrated sugar and sticky)
- Crackers or white bread which are stuck to teeth
Products which protect teeth:
- Cheese and dairy without added sugar
- Fresh fruit and vegetables which act as natural cleaners of teeth
- Fluoridated water which can be found in tap
- Nuts and seeds (sources of minerals necessary for healthy teeth).
Drinking should be predominantly water between meals. Offer any juices to your child only during meals, if possible diluting them.
5. Don’t Let Babies Go to Sleep with a Bottle
Baby bottle tooth decay is a genuine concern that needs addressing. This is where infants or toddlers go to sleep with a bottle containing milk, formula or juice. The sugar in the drink remains on their teeth for several hours, causing decay. Decay from this process manifests itself as either white or brown spots on the front teeth.We at Baldivis Dental Clinic recommend the complete consumption of the baby’s bottle before going to bed, while also introducing a cup as early as possible, not exceeding one year old.
6. Inquire about Fissure Sealants
At Baldivis Dental Clinic, fissure sealants are provided to our patients. The application of fissure sealants is painless and very effective. This treatment involves applying a thin layer of coating onto the surface of back teeth (molars) in order to prevent food and plaque from becoming trapped there.
Scientific studies reveal that fissure sealants could cut down the chances of cavities developing on molars by up to 80%. We advise getting fissure sealants once your child gets his first set of permanent molars at the age of six/seven years.
7. Have Fluoride Treatments
One of the best ways to prevent tooth decay is through fluoride treatments. Fluoride works by making teeth stronger against the effects of acids. As part of your regular dental visit, your dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment to protect your children from tooth cavities.
This treatment takes only minutes and involves applying fluoride directly to the teeth. Fluoride varnish or gels are often used for this purpose.
8. Take Your Child for Regular Check-ups Every Six Months
Children should have routine dental visits twice a year. While proper brushing at home helps maintain oral hygiene, some areas are impossible to clean without professional assistance. Regular visits allow us to keep track of your child’s development, including checking for cavities, tooth alignment, and bone development problems.
Visiting our children’s dentists in Baldivis regularly ensures your child gets used to visiting the dental office and feels relaxed.
9. Set a Good Example
Children imitate their parents. Brushing your teeth in front of them can teach them this routine. Tell your kids that visiting the dentist should be nothing to be scared of, and they will see it as a usual activity. When oral hygiene practices are part of daily routine and seen as natural, children become more willing to adopt them.
10. Recognise the Symptoms of a Cavity
Early detection always leads to easier treatment. Here are some symptoms to look out for in order to detect a cavity in your child’s mouth:
- White areas on the teeth (demineralisation, the very beginning of the formation of cavities)
- Brownish spots on the teeth’ surfaces
- Increased sensitivity to certain foods or drinks
- Appearance of cavities on the teeth
- Pain in the tooth
If your child demonstrates any of those signs, make sure you schedule a visit to our Baldivis children’s dentists as soon as possible. The earlier you deal with the problem, the better.
Why Families in Baldivis Prefer Baldivis Dental Clinic
Here at Baldivis Dental Clinic, we know that the experience of a child at his first trip to the dentist will affect him for the rest of his life. That is why our experienced dentist, led by Dr Famysa Riyas, is dedicated to offering children a peaceful, friendly, and child-focused clinic atmosphere.
Our services for children include:
- Regular check-up appointments
- Dental cleaning procedures
- Fissure sealant therapy
- Fluoride treatments
- Early orthodontic evaluation
- Emergency dental treatments for children
We cater to families in the Baldivis, Warnbro, Port Kennedy, Rockingham, and neighboring areas. We provide comprehensive dental care for children of all ages.