Does your child have tooth decay?

Tooth decay or cavities are the most damaging, painful and troublesome issue that can happen to anyone especially kids. Some parents think there’s no reason to worry about these baby teeth getting decay. The baby teeth are going to fall out anyway. Unfortunately, many parents do not know that a proper set of baby teeth can help the child to be able to eat and nourishes proper nutrition as well as develop proper speech.

Why does tooth decay occur?

“My child brushes everyday but why does his/her teeth still decay?” claimed some parents. Our mouth contains hundred different types of bacteria found in our gums, teeth, cheeks or even our tongue. These bacteria consume the sugar and starches in our food and produces acid which destroy the protective layer of our teeth over time. When the child goes to sleep with bottle feeding throughout the night, these bacteria joyfully takes up the sugar causing the teeth to decay. This process can cause rampant caries or decay.

How can we spot tooth decay in children?

“Hi Doc, how can I know when my child’s teeth are starting to decay? How can I spot the decay?” asked one of the parent. At the age of 2-3 years old, normally a child has their full set of baby teeth. Tooth decay can be difficult to notice sometimes but there are some signs to help parents identify the issue.

• White spots lesion near the gum line
• Yellowish, brown or black bands near the gum line
• Chipped or ragged edges of the teeth with discoloration- indicates advanced decay
•  Discomfort or pain when the child eats cold or hot food

What can we do to prevent tooth decay?

“I want to protect my child from all the sufferings caused by tooth decay. How can I do that?” asked an eager parent. Though at such a young age, children are susceptible to tooth decay and other oral problems, there are also measures of prevention.

• Avoid bottle feeding throughout the night
• Avoid snacks between meals
• Reduce sugary intakes especially candies and chocolates
• Drink plain water instead of sugary drinks
• Proper brushing at least twice a day. Use fluoridated toothpaste
• Obtain sufficient fluoride (from water or supplements)

Regular visits to the dentist is crucial to prevent and treat tooth decay. During the visits, examination and cleaning are done by the dentist:

• Check and identify early tooth decay
• Thorough cleaning to remove plaque
• Apply Fluoride varnish if necessary
• Dental sealants to prevent tooth decay or cavities- normally done on the developing molars (back teeth)
• Teach the child proper brushing technique
• Schedule the next visit for follow up and review

Lastly, parents should supervise their kids during brushing, encourage them to eat healthily and make time to bring their kids to visit the dentists. Parents can be a good role model to exercise proper oral habits so that the kids can be motivated to do so to prevent tooth decay.