The Best Ways to Prevent Tooth Decay in Children

• What is tooth decay in children?
• How to prevent tooth decay in children 
• Foods that help prevent tooth decay in your child
• How do I know if my child has tooth decay?
• Treatment options for tooth decay in children

Few things in life are as beautiful as a child’s smile. Naturally, we want to protect our children’s teeth and teach them good oral hygiene habits they will follow throughout their lives. 

As parents or guardians, that means ensuring our children have healthy teeth and gums before they are able to take on the responsibility of maintaining oral hygiene on their own. In this blog, we will discuss how you can help prevent tooth decay in your child and what to do if you suspect their teeth may be in trouble. 

What is tooth decay in children?

Tooth decay in children means that the tooth’s hard outer surface, known as the enamel, has been compromised. In many cases, the damage to the enamel is caused by bacteria that form when foods high in carbohydrates (sugars and starches) are left on the teeth. 

Foods kids love, such as soda, raisins, candy, cake, fruit juices, cereals, and bread, all have the potential to lead to dental caries (i.e. tooth decay) , more commonly known as cavities. Cavities can reach deep into a tooth, causing tooth pain and discomfort, and will require fillings or other techniques to treat them.

How to prevent tooth decay in children 

As caregivers, we can help prevent tooth decay in our children by introducing proper oral hygiene habits that include keeping the mouth as clean and bacteria-free as possible right from the start. 

Here are eight ways to prevent tooth decay in your child and protect their dental health:

1. As soon as their first tooth erupts, brush their teeth, tongue, and gums for two minutes per day using a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle brush
2. Up until the age of 3, use only a tiny amount of toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice
3. After your child turns 3, start them on a pea-sized amount of toothpaste
4. Floss your child’s teeth daily 
5. If your child uses a bottle at night, only fill it with water instead of juices and formula that can contain sugar and lead to tooth decay
6. When your child is old enough to start brushing their teeth independently, supervise them to ensure they’re doing it correctly
7. Promote proper nutrition (see below section)
8. Don’t share utensils with your child to prevent the transfer of bacteria from your mouth to your child’s

Additionally, talk to your dentist about when to book your child’s first dental visit. Forming a strong relationship between your child and their dental health team early will lead to a healthy attitude to taking care of their oral health and give them the best chance of having a healthy, beautiful smile through childhood and beyond. 

Foods that help prevent tooth decay in your child

One of the most effective ways to prevent tooth decay in children is to limit foods that are sticky and high in sugar, such as chips, candy, cookies, cake, and soda drinks.

Here are some better choices to promote good oral – and overall – health and well-being in your children:

• Lean meats, nuts, and proteins
• Fruits and vegetables that are crunchy or have high water content
• Cheese
• Low-fat dairy products that are high in calcium, such as skim milk and yogurt
• Unsweetened food and beverages
• Water instead of sugary drinks or sodas 

How do I know if my child has tooth decay?

Although tooth decay might present differently from child to child, there are some common signs that might suggest that your child is at risk of developing cavities:

• Your child complains about pain in the area around the tooth

• They display a sensitivity to certain foods, especially hot or cold drinks
• You see white spots on their teeth, which can indicate that the enamel is starting to break down
• A light brown, dark brown, or black spot is evident on the tooth, which may be a cavity  

If you suspect tooth decay in your child, make an appointment with their dentist as soon as possible for a complete examination that may include dental x-rays to get a complete picture of the state of their teeth.

Treatment options for tooth decay in children

If your dentist finds tooth decay in your child, treatment options will depend on the severity of the condition, as well as your child’s age, symptoms, oral hygiene, and general health. 

In some cases, simple techniques such as removing plaque, cleaning the decayed area, applying dental sealants, remineralizing the teeth, and using fluoride can be effective in solving decayed teeth before the condition becomes worse. However, removing the decayed part of the tooth and replacing it with a filling might also be necessary. 

Your dentist will discuss each available option with you so you can make an informed choice with confidence.  

Yonge Eglinton Dental – family dental care you can trust

The team at Yonge Eglinton Dental loves taking care of your whole family’s oral health, especially your children’s. We’re very sensitive to young people who may be apprehensive about dental visits and have developed many practical and empathetic approaches to help your child feel confident when in our office. In fact, you’ll find your children will look forward to their next dental appointment!

Ask us today how we can work together to protect your child’s oral health and get them off to the best start in caring for their teeth so they can show the world a bright, beautiful smile that will last a lifetime.

Learn more about how to prevent tooth decay in children from the experts at Yonge Eglinton Dental in Toronto

Wondering how else you can protect your child’s bright, beautiful smile? Talk to the dental professionals at Yonge Eglinton Dental. We focus on making sure your teeth not only look great but are also as strong and healthy as possible. Make an appointment for an office visit today by calling our office at 416-932-2222 or booking online. We look forward to seeing you!

Are you concerned about visiting the dentist? Read about how we protect the health and safety of our patients and staff so your family can seek proper dental care with peace of mind.