According to experts, an estimated
42 percent of American children have cavities on their milk teeth. On the other
hand, 21 percent of children have cavities on their permanent teeth.
Prevent your child from being among
these statistics. Here are steps to take to prevent your child from developing
cavities.
Expose Teeth to Fluoride
Fluoride is a substance that aids in
remineralization, the process where the tooth enamel hardens after being
subjected to acids from food and drinks. Have your child use fluoridated
toothpaste. City water supplies also contain fluoride.
However, consult your dentist and
ask the safe amount of fluoride your child’s teeth can be exposed to. Too much
of a good thing can be bad for the little one.
Chewing Sugarless Gum
If your child is always looking for
something to nibble on, give him or her sugarless chewing gum (provided the
little one is of an appropriate age, of course). The continuous chewing
stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away bacteria from the teeth’s
surface and promotes remineralization.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are plastic coatings
placed on the surface of molars. They act as a shield against food debris and
germs, minimizing their contact with teeth and substantially decreasing cavity
risks. Typically, sealants last 10 years before they need to be replaced.
Interested adults may also have sealants applied to their teeth.
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