Cavities are typically the result of poor oral hygiene or a sugary diet. When your child does not brush and floss their teeth regularly or effectively, the bacteria in their mouth feed on the sugars and carbohydrates that cling to their teeth, developing into plaque and eventually into calculus (tartar). When not removed, plaque causes decay, periodontal disease and other oral health problems. Your child may also experience sensitivity to temperature (such as hot or cold foods and drinks), pain and discomfort as a result of tooth decay.

You can prevent your child’s tooth decay by:

• Helping them to brushing and flossing daily. We recommend that you use a fluoridated toothpaste.
• Keep your child’s regular dental appointments. These routine preventive care treatments are essential for keeping their teeth and gums clean and healthy.
• Ask our dentist about dental sealants and fluoride treatments. These may help protect and strengthen your child’s teeth.
• Minimize your child’s intake of sugary and starchy foods. This will help reduce the quantity of harmful bacteria and acids in their mouth.
• Minimize your child’s intake of sugary and starchy foods. This will help reduce the quantity of harmful bacteria and acids in their mouth.
• Have your child chew gum containing xylitol. Xylitol has been proven to reduce bacterial growth, strengthen teeth and prevent cavities.

There are a variety of treatments available to repair the damage caused by tooth decay and restore your child’s smile, including dental fillings, dental crowns and root canal therapy. Our dentist will evaluate your child’s smile to determine the treatment that will be most beneficial for them.

We invite you to contact our office if you notice any signs of tooth decay and schedule an appointment with our dentist.