The primary goal of a pediatric dentist is to keep a child’s teeth and gums healthy. Following your pediatric dentist’s recommendations for your child’s oral care is a potent way to do this. Combining these with regular dental visits will improve your child’s dental health and development. Here are the details of how your pediatric dentist can help with cavity prevention.
A pediatric dentist can provide fluoride treatment during every dental visit. This will strengthen and protect teeth from decay. Fluoride is a natural element. It can prevent tooth decay by 50-70%. Consulting a pediatric dentist about the proper use of fluoride for dental health is important. Too little or too much of this element can be harmful to the teeth.
Excessive fluoride can cause dental fluorosis. This results in a chalky brown or white discoloration of permanent teeth. Fluoride deficiency results in harm to the teeth as well. It deprives teeth of the strength to fight cavities.
Using a smear of fluoride toothpaste to brush the teeth of a child younger than three years old is enough to provide a layer of protection on the teeth every day. Children who are three to six years old should only use a pea-size amount of toothpaste for each brushing. A parent should assist the child with proper brushing. Children should spit out the toothpaste after each brushing. This will prevent fluorosis.
These can also prevent a child’s teeth from developing cavities. A pediatric dentist can help protect a child’s teeth from decay by applying a dental sealant. This substance can penetrate the fissures and pits in the dental surfaces. It forms a barrier against harmful acids that adhere to the child’s teeth.
A pediatric dentist can also suggest a few changes in the child’s diet. The teeth, soft tissues, and bones in the mouth need a balanced amount of nutrients. Children should eat proper nutrients in the right proportions. Snacking on chips, candies, and sweet drinks leads to cavities and decay. The length of time the food particles stay in the mouth also affects the worsening of cavities.
Hard candy, mints, potato chips, and chocolates can stay in the mouth longer. This encourages the bacteria to release more corrosive acids that attack the enamel. Vegetables, low-fat cheese, and low-fat yogurt are healthier snacks for children. Of course, brushing after snacking helps make sure that the child’s teeth are free from food particles.
Pediatric dentists also advise their young patients not to drink sports drinks. These beverages have high amounts of sugar that dissolve the enamel. This can lead to cavities. Water is the ideal sports drink. Hydrating with water can even freshen the breath.
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Parents like you want to make sure that your child is always in good health. Providing potent protection against cavities can benefit your child’s general health. With diligence, cavity prevention is possible. An appointment with your pediatric dentist can help strengthen your child’s defense against cavities.
Request an appointment or call Alexandria Old Town Dental at 703-763-1078 for an appointment in our Alexandria office.
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