Due to an increase of sugar in the diet through fast food, soda pop and candy, children are now much more susceptible to bacteria which causes cavities or tooth decay to harm their teeth.
In fact, the U.S. Center for Disease Control cites a study that says there has been a 15.2 percent increase in tooth decay during the last 10 years for children under six.
Various things cause tooth decay for younger dental patients at Coquitlam General and Sedation Dentistry, most notably sugar intake, severe stress, contents in baby bottles and infant feeding habits.
Children’s oral health worsens when they are sent to school. At school, there is more chance of them getting a soda from vending machines. Our culture is shifting so that there is minimal parental supervision and convenience foods are way too readily available, and this is all having a severe effect on oral health.
There are many things parents can do to stop their kids from getting cavities. Daily oral care is essential, and can be achieved at minimal cost.
Here are some additional healthy dental habits for kids:
Making sure your child gets the proper oral care. Pregnant women who eat a balanced and nutritious diet are already helping their children and leading them on the right path when it comes to oral health. Preventive care is ideal after the baby’s first feeding and should continue on as the child gets older. Children are not able to remove plaque themselves until they are eight, so a parent needs to help them brush and floss twice a day.
Sugar is hurting your child’s teeth. Kids can get cavities as early as nine months of age. Their upper front teeth are first affected and this can quickly spread to the other teeth if a child is feeding on a bottle containing sugar. If food surface is not removed from the teeth, your child’s teeth will start to decay quickly.
Bring your child to the dentist before they turn 1. Before a child turns one is the ideal time to take them for their first dental visit. This is a good idea for you too, parents – this appointment can help educate you on what you can do to make sure your child’s oral health is the best it can be. We can also help you identify signs of early problems while they are still in a stage that is easy to treat.