February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

According to the National Children’s Oral Health Foundation, more than 40 percent of children have cavities by the time they are in kindergarten.   This month, Dr. Mary Rose discusses how to prevent tooth decay.

There are dental terms associated with tooth decay.

Oral Bacteria – Oral bacteria are microscopic organisms that live in your mouth, teeth, gums, and tongue.  Good bacteria protects your teeth and gums as well as manages the growth of bad bacteria.  The bad bacteria uses the sugars and starches found in certain foods and drinks to produce acid that attacks the enamel in teeth.

Plaque - Plaque is a soft, sticky film which contains bacteria, that builds up on your teeth.

Enamel – Tooth enamel is the hard, translucent, outermost layer of your teeth.  It protects the tooth from damage and tooth decay.

Just like adults, Children love food and drinks containing sugar.  Bacteria in plaque uses the sugars in those foods to produce acid.  If the plaque is not removed regularly, the acid will start to break down the tooth enamel which will lead to tooth decay.

Dr. Mary Rose suggests the following to prevent tooth decay.

Limit your child’s sugary drinks and snacks – Avoiding sugary beverages will help avoid prolonged exposure of the sugary liquid to their teeth.  If your child uses a sippy cups for long periods of time, fill the cup with water.  Dr. Mary Rose suggests not allowing your child to take the sippy cup to bed.  Dr. Mary Rose also suggests limiting sugary snacks as well.

Brush and Floss – The earlier, the better.  For newborns, clean your baby’s gums daily with a gauze or soft cloth. After the first tooth, use a toothbrush and toothpaste the size of a grain of rice.  Once they have two teeth that touch, it is time to floss.  Starting at age 3, brush their teeth twice daily for 2 minutes.

Make sure to schedule regular dental hygiene visits – Regular dental hygiene visits every 6 months is very important to your child’s dental health.  The first dental visit should be six months after your child’s first tooth erupts or by their first birthday.  Dr. Mary Rose suggests preparing your child for the fist visit.  Helping your child understand what to expect will avoid any surprises or fears.