Quick tips to keep your kids cavity-free.
As a dentist with three small children of my own, I understand the anxiety that children (and their parents) may have when visiting their dentist. And quite often I find myself in a situation where I need to tell loving parents that their young child has cavities. Many are shocked because they thought they were being really careful about what their kids are eating.
Everybody knows that too much candy can cause cavities. Although that's true, I wish it was that simple with candy being the only culprit. Exposure to simple sugars definitely increases the risk of dental decay, but the story doesn't end there. There are numerous factors that contribute to the formation of cavities and even snacks that you thought were healthy, could be harming your children's teeth.
Did you know that prevention is the most effective way to minimize extensive dental treatment for us all? As much as I love seeing my clients, here are 3 changes you can make TODAY to help keep your child's dental appointments to a minimum.
It's okay to let your kids indulge in the occasional treat...but only at the end of a meal! This is when salivary flow is the highest and so it's the safest time for a sweet treat. Sugary foods (like dried fruit, candies or juices) or starchy foods (like crackers, pasta or pretzels) will increase your child's risk of getting cavities when eaten as between meal snacks. Cheese, on the other hand, is a healthy snack and tooth-friendly too!
As soon as your child gets his first tooth, STOP nursing him to sleep or putting him to bed with a bottle of milk, formula or juice. These can all result in severe decay which may then require extensive treatment even in very young children. To prevent this, clean your baby's teeth with a wet washcloth, a tooth cleansing wipe (available at some dental offices) or a small soft toothbrush moistened with water before bed. And if necessary put your child to sleep with a bottle of water or a pacifier.
And finally, start looking after your own teeth. Babies are born without any cavity causing bacteria. They inherit these "sugar bugs" from their parents and caregivers through shared food, utensils, toothbrushes and even kisses. So, by looking after your own teeth, you're not only minimizing the transfer of these pesky sugar bugs, but you're also modeling behaviour that your kids will want to mimic. A win/win situation!
Parents want the best for their children. Making these simple changes will have a positive effect on your children's teeth and their health. Also, one visit to the dentist before one year of age will get your child on track to zero cavities! For example, your child's first visit at Dental Works on Cornwall is usually no more than a quick 15 minute appointment. It's also an opportunity for both you and your child get comfortable with us and the environment. We will screen your child's teeth and gums for any developing issues and discuss what preventive measures would help your child stay cavity free!
PROMO:
Have questions? Join us on Thursday, March 1st, at 11am for our monthly Kid's Corner. This month we will be focusing on: How foods and snacks affect your children's teeth. Ask Dr. Piracha any questions you may have about your baby's teeth. She will also offer a COMPLIMENTARY oral screening for your child. We'll have coffee brewing for the parents and there will be healthy snacks, a colouring station as well as stickers for any older siblings that may come along.
Please email to register as space is limited. We hope to see you there!
Address:
Dental Works on Cornwall
1495 Cornwall Road, Unit 34
Oakville, ON L6J 0B2
Contact us today:
905-842-5051, info@dentalworksoakville.com
Web site: http://www.dentalworksoakville.com
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