Cavities can develop at any age, but they are especially prevalent in children, who are still learning proper dental care. To help your child avoid cavities, you can boost his or her dental health by following these five tips.
1. Begin oral care early. Even before your baby has teeth, he or she is at risk of oral maladies. Within the first few days of birth, you should begin gently wiping your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cotton pad or washcloth.
2. Encourage daily brushing and flossing. When the first tooth appears, it’s time to begin brushing and flossing. Selecting a toothbrush with soft bristles will make brushing more enjoyable for your child.
3. Limit bottle use. It’s important to limit the amount of sugary drinks in your child’s bottle. Instead, opt for water, milk or baby formula, especially if your baby goes to bed with a bottle. Sugary drinks (even the sugar in milk) can cause tooth rot.
4. Provide a tooth-friendly diet. Healthy foods contain less sugar and acid than junk food, but certain foods actually boost dental health. Yogurt, cheese, apples, carrots, celery and almonds all keep teeth clean and strong.
5. Visit the dentist regularly. Dental checkups will help you catch any signs of tooth decay. Dr. Marianne Morelli can tell you if your child is at risk of cavities or gum disease, as well as provide specified advice for your child’s individual needs.
If you’re researching cavity prevention strategies in Brookfield, Connecticut, contact Brookfield Family Dentistry, LLC at 203.775.6167. Our team treats children of all ages, and we’re more than happy to address your questions and concerns.