Is There a Sure Way to Prevent Cavities?

Posted March 13, 2019

Cavities are the most common threat to your child’s teeth, and preventing them is an important aspect of their routine dental care. The good news is that, while there is no single treatment or dental solution that’s guaranteed to prevent cavities, there are specific measures you can take to help protect your child’s teeth from them. At our Dallas, TX, children’s dental office, cavity prevention and treatment are important aspects of the care we provide. Today, we examine a few of the most effective ways to help your child prevent them.

Understanding cavity development

The reason why cavities are so common (for both children and adults) is because they’re caused by the oral bacteria that naturally inhabit our mouths. When these bacteria metabolize nutrients like sugar and carbs, they convert them into acids that weaken tooth enamel and make teeth vulnerable to the bacteria. Once the microbes infect a tooth’s main structure, the cavity that develops in the tooth will have to be treated before it grows larger. However, stopping the bacteria by effectively controlling them and keeping tooth enamel strong can often prevent cavities from forming in the first place.

Tips for effective hygiene

• The most important and consistent thing for children to do to prevent cavities is to carefully brush and floss their teeth every day. Oral bacteria constantly form plaque on teeth, and the only way to stop it from calcifying into tartar is to remove it with a toothbrush at least twice a day. Also, teach children to floss their teeth before bed time to reduce the chances of oral bacteria feeding on food particles stuck between them during the night.
• Staying away from anything rich in sugar is the best way to prevent oral bacteria from overwhelming your child’s tooth enamel with harmful acids. Eliminating sugar completely may not be an option, but you can reduce its effects by avoiding candy for snacks, and choosing water over sugary fruit juices and acidic soft drinks.
• Visiting the dentist regularly is a vital part of a good hygiene routine, and another highly important habit to teach children at a young age. During each visit, the dentist or hygienist will carefully remove any remaining plaque from your child’s teeth, as well as any tartar that has had a chance to calcify since the last visit. We’ll also carefully examine your child’s teeth and gums to check for signs that a cavity or other concern hasn’t already developed.

Protect your kids’ smiles from cavities

There’s no single solution to preventing cavities, but with consistently good care and maintenance, your child has a much better chance of succeeding. For more information, schedule an appointment by calling Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda in Dallas, TX today at 214-321-4880. We proudly serve patients living in Casa Linda and all surrounding Dallas communities, including Lakewood, Lake Highlands, Forest Hills, and more.