When keeping your children healthy, it’s important to remember their dental health, too. Children are susceptible to cavities just like adults and should be caring for their teeth regularly to prevent tooth decay.
What is a cavity?
When a cavity, or hole, develops in a tooth, this is the result of tooth decay. The process of tooth decay starts with an infection of bacteria in a child’s mouth. Bacteria feed on sugar and produce acid that in time, will dissolve minerals on the outermost layer of the tooth, known as enamel. Eventually, the inner layer, dentin, of the tooth becomes affected.
Signs of cavities in your kid’s teeth
As you’re monitoring your children’s teeth, you should keep your eye out for these key indications of tooth decay:
- White/chalky spots on teeth and gum line
- Yellowish film on teeth
- Red, swollen gums
- Pain/discomfort when chewing or drinking hot or cold liquids
Protect your child’s smile from tooth decay
To keep your children’s teeth healthy and happy, make sure to assist them in taking good care of their teeth. For better oral hygiene, follow these tips from Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry:
- Brush for two minutes, twice daily. Help and monitor your child until they develop good brushing habits.
- Don’t forget to floss. Once your child has two teeth touching, you should ensure that you are flossing to remove plaque.
- Make regular appointments with your local pediatric dentist in Charlotte. Schedule dental examinations for tooth decay prevention.
