Is your child at risk of developing cavities? The oral health of toddlers and young children is essential to limit the risk of certain diseases such as cavities.
In our blog post, discover 5 essential tips to help protect youthful smiles from this condition and promote excellent oral health. For more information, contact our dentists at ELNA Dentaire.
Qu’est-ce qu’une carie dentaire ?
Tooth decay is a common but worrying infectious disease that occurs when enamel, the protective outer layer of the teeth, is attacked by bacteria present in plaque. These bacteria produce acids which, over time, can erode the enamel and create a cavity in the tooth.
The process is gradual, and the early stages of decay can go unnoticed, which is why it’s important to take precautions from an early age.
What are the risks of cavities for children?
Tooth decay may seem benign at first, but if left untreated, it can quickly develop into a more serious problem. Cavities can cause infections and mild to severe pain. Pain can lead to problems with sleeping, concentrating and eating.
If left untreated, cavities can spread to neighboring teeth and under the gums. In addition, decayed baby teeth can damage permanent teeth in formation.
Tip 1: Control your child’s diet
Some foods react chemically with plaque to produce acid, which damages tooth enamel. So it’s important to monitor the foods your child eats:
Added sugars: Sweets, sodas, cakes and cookies rich in sugars encourage the growth of cavity-causing bacteria.
Sticky foods: Jelly beans, dried fruit and other sticky foods can stick to teeth, increasing the risk of cavities.
Acidic drinks: Sweet beverages such as citrus juices and soft drinks can erode tooth enamel over time.
Starchy foods: Starchy foods such as potato chips and crackers contribute to the formation of cavities.
Colored foods and beverages: Foods and beverages rich in colorants can stain teeth, altering the aesthetics of the smile.
Snacking between meals is another habit to avoid, as it gives saliva less time to neutralize the acid. If your child asks for a snack, encourage healthy foods such as fresh fruit, vegetables and dairy products.
Finally, it’s essential to make sure your child drinks enough water to help remove any food particles that may be stuck between the teeth.
Tip 2: Watch what your child puts in his mouth
Bacteria causing cavities can also be transmitted by everyday objects such as pacifiers, feeding bottles, stuffed toys and toys. So it’s crucial to regularly clean the objects your child puts in his or her mouth to eliminate potentially harmful bacteria.
Bacteria can also be transmitted through saliva. So avoid sharing cutlery, toothbrushes or kissing children on the mouth.
It’s also important not to let your child fall asleep with a baby bottle, especially if it contains milk or another sugary drink. This behavior can encourage the development of tooth decay, as saliva, which protects teeth less during sleep, is unable to neutralize the sugars contained in milk.
Tip 3: Establish a cleaning routine
It’s important to establish a cleaning routine as soon as the first teeth appear. Parents should be responsible for cleaning their child’s teeth until at least age 2. After the age of 2, they can start brushing their own teeth, under adult supervision to ensure that they adopt the correct technique and reach all tooth surfaces. Around the age of 5-6, children can learn to brush independently. Note that ages may vary from child to child.
Here are a few tips:
Soft toothbrush: Choose a soft toothbrush that’s gentler on children’s sensitive gums.
Regular brushing: Encourage brushing at least twice a day, preferably in the morning and before bedtime.
Brushing technique: Teach your child to use circular, up-and-down strokes to cover all tooth surfaces.
Fluoride toothpaste: Choose a fluoride toothpaste recommended by your dentist to help strengthen tooth enamel. The amount of toothpaste should be adapted to the child’s age.
Brushing time: Encourage brushing for at least two minutes.
Flossing: Introduce flossing into the routine as soon as teeth start to touch, usually around 2-3 years of age. Show your child how to floss under your supervision.
Don’t hesitate to ask your dentist for advice tailored to your child’s age and oral health.
Tip 4: Educate and make your children reponsible
Children often learn by imitating their parents. Show them good habits by brushing in front of them, flossing and eating a balanced diet.
You can also make brushing fun, so that your child learns the right gestures more easily. For example, use colorful, bright toothbrushes and fun timers. Books, videos and educational apps can also help explain the importance of oral health.
What’s more, it’s essential to empower your child by giving them an active role in their oral health. For example, you can let them choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste, or give them the responsibility of remembering to brush their teeth twice a day.
Finally, teach him to recognize the symptoms of tooth decay, such as increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, or the presence of small visible holes on the teeth. If a cavity is detected, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
Tip 5: Make a preventive appointment with your dentist
It’s recommended that children make their first visit to the dentist around the age of 1, or as soon as their first tooth appears, in order to familiarize themselves with the world of the dental clinic and avoid developing anxiety related to these visits.
Annual visits are then recommended to ensure proper follow-up, thorough cleaning and early detection of cavities. Annual dental check-ups are covered by RAMQ for children under 10.
It’s important to follow your dentist’s recommendations regarding the frequency of visits, which may vary according to the child’s individual needs. During these visits, the dentist will give preventive advice on cleaning, monitor jaw growth and tooth position, and assess general oral health. If decay is detected, the dentist may suggest conservative treatment to halt its progress and preserve the tooth, or extraction if the decay is too advanced.
Dental care for children in Montreal
If you’re looking for a dentist for your child, it’s important to choose a dental clinic that offers pediatric services. Pediatric dentists are specially trained to manage the oral health problems of toddlers and make visits as pleasant as possible.
ELNA Dental clinic (Carré Décarie, Montreal) offers child-friendly dental care, treatment and support. Our pediatric dental professionals use a gentle, educational approach to put our young patients at ease.
