Did you know that the Cavities are the most common chronic childhood disease?
Yes, 5 times more common than asthma!
It’s extremely important to get an early start on prevention and take your child to the dentist by age 1 because more than 50% of children will get cavities by the time they reach kindergarten. Don’t wait until your child is in pain to take them to the dentist, not ALL baby teeth fall out when they’re 6 years old.
 |
Here are some tips to help prevent cavities:
- Brush their teeth twice a day for 2 minutes. Stay involved and help them brush those teeth in the back. Think about yourself when you were a child, were you brushing the way you expect them to?
- The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends the use of fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth comes in,it’s ok if they don’t spit yet because the amount that is recommended is a smear layer up to age 3 and a pea-sized amount after that.
- Avoid constant snacking throughout the day, especially sweet and starchy foods. These increase acidic levels ( which is the ideal environment for cavity formation). Water dense fruit and veggies are the best!
- Water, water, water! All day ,everyday! One of the easiest ways to help prevent cavities. Children will get used to eating and drinking the food that you give them.
- For babies, PLEASE don’t let them fall asleep with a bottle of milk in their mouth. Search for a photo of baby bottle caries and you’ll see what I’m talking about.
- Make brushing fun! Let them pick out a toothbrush and a special song they can listen to while brushing! Get creative with it.
- Avoid sharing food and drinks, the bacteria responsible for cavities is Streptococcus mutants (not related to ninja turtles) and the most common method of transmission is from caregiver to child. You need to take care of your teeth too!
- I’m not saying they can’t eat candy, just not every day! It’s better if they eat more candy once or twice a week than a little bit of candy every day. Follow it with water and don’t forget to floss!
Meet the Doctor:
Dr. Shana Capra, DDS
Board Certified Pediatric Dentist
 |
Dr. Shana Capra is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist and Diplomate of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
She is also a mother who understands the daily struggles with kids food choices and dental hygiene which is why she has a practical approach to dental care.
