Fact Sheet: Children and Tooth Decay
Protect Your Child’s Teeth
Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease among children, and, unfortunately, children who develop cavities in their baby teeth are more likely to develop cavities in their permanent teeth, as well. Protect your child from tooth decay and other oral health issues by taking steps to care for your child’s teeth throughout his or her childhood.
How I Can Protect My Child from Tooth Decay?
Prolonged exposure to sugar-containing liquids can cause tooth decay in children, so limit your child’s consumption of sugary beverages like soft drinks or sweetened fruit juice. If you give your child a sippy cup for long periods of time, fill it only with water and don’t allow him or her to take it to bed. Children should learn to drink from a regular cup as early as possible; liquid is less likely to collect around the teeth that way. You also should limit your child’s consumption of sugary or starchy snacks, especially those that can remain stuck in the teeth after eating.
When Should My Child See a Dentist?
The best way to prevent oral health problems is to take your child to a dentist regularly. After your child’s first dental visit—which should occur six months after the child’s first tooth erupts or by the child’s first birthday—he or she should see the dentist every six months. Some dentists schedule appointments for very young children every three months; early visits will help familiarize your child with the dental office, reducing anxiety and making future visits less stressful. In addition to examining the development of your child’s mouth, the dentist can teach you how to ensure good oral health and recommend special preventive care if necessary.
How Can I Promote My child’s Oral Health at Home?
A proper at-home oral health care regimen is important. Parents should care for their child’s oral hygiene until the child is old enough to take responsibility for the daily routine of brushing and flossing. To help promote good oral health, follow these simple steps:
- Make sure your child brushes his or her teeth for two minutes twice a day. Children 2 years and older can use a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste. Before your child turns 2, clean his or her gums with a damp cloth and brush the teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush and water.
- Start flossing between your child’s teeth as soon as he or she has two teeth that touch each other.
- Monitor excessive sucking of pacifiers and fingers, both of which are habits that can lead to future misalignment of teeth.
- Give your child fluoridated water, whether it’s bottled or from the tap.
- Encourage your child to brush and floss his or her own teeth when he or she is old enough, but always monitor the child’s technique and thoroughness.
- Lead by example: Brushing and flossing your teeth with your child will teach him or her to understand the importance of good oral hygiene.
