Tooth decay can occur at any age. It is caused by the build-up of plaque on your teeth which can then lead to other more serious problems such as dental abscesses, holes in the tooth or even gum disease. It can be difficult to detect tooth decay because you may not have any pain to indicate its presence. However, pain is not the only symptom of tooth decay. Others include a sensitive tooth, dark coloured spots on the tooth, toothache, bad breath and a distaste in your mouth. It will be easier to detect such symptoms in your own mouth, but what about your children’s teeth? How will you prevent tooth decay in children? At least one in 10 three year old’s suffer from tooth decay. It’s a common problem in this generation’s youth, but what can be done to avoid it?
Consume less sugary foods and drinks
The first tip to prevent tooth decay in children may seem like an obvious one, but it is one of the most important, since sugar is the main cause of tooth decay. Of course, we all know that kids love sweets and fizzy drinks. It wouldn’t be fair to never let your children enjoy the occasional treat, which is why it is best to keep sugary drinks for mealtimes only. You can also try giving them other delicious snacks to enjoy such as grapes, strawberries and cut up pieces of apple etc.
Plenty of Milk and Water
If your child is under three years if age, it is a good idea to avoid sugary drinks as much as possible. Instead, opt for milk and water, which will actually help make their teeth stronger as a result.
Brush Teeth Regularly
Most dentists will advise you and your children to brush your teeth twice a day. Each session should last approximately two minutes. It is a good idea to monitor your kids to ensure that they are brushing their teeth properly. The best time of the day is to brush just before bed and again in the morning. However, if they eat a sugary meal during the day, it may be a good idea to ask them to brush their teeth afterwards to avoid plague build up.
Regular Dentist Appointments
In order to prevent tooth decay in children, it is important to make sure that they attend the dentist regularly. A simple check-up will let you know how your child’s teeth are doing with regards to development and health etc. Your dentist will be able to tell you how to best help care for your children’s teeth, offering you professional oral hygiene tips and treatments etc.
If you are struggling to encourage your children to attend a dentist appointment, it’s only because you haven’t tried Docklands Dental. Your child can sit up on the comfy dental chair, lie back and watch their favourite TV programs and animated films from the flat screen television that is situated on the ceiling. This was installed to help calm nervous patients, but it has also been proven to be an excellent way to get kids excited about their next visit to the dentist.
Help prevent tooth decay in children by making an appointment at Docklands Dental today:
Address:
Docklands Dental,
Unit 4 NCI,
Mayor Street,
IFSC,
Dublin 1.
Tel: +353 (0)1 636 0192
Email: hello@docklandsdental.ie
