Tooth decay (also called cavities or caries) is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases in Australia, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW).
Nearly 42% of children have decay in their primary teeth, and 24% of children have decay in their permanent adult teeth.
Because all children have bacteria in their mouths, all children are at risk for developing dental decay. Fortunately, cavities are 100% preventable with an excellent oral hygiene routine, a healthy diet and regular visits to the dentist. Before we dive deeper into how to reduce the risk of cavities in children, let’s cover some of the basics of tooth decay.
What Is Tooth Decay?
Cavities occur when food debris and bacteria on the teeth are not properly cleaned away. The combination of bacteria, acid, foods and saliva form a sticky substance called plaque, which then hardens into tartar. As a result, white spots, mineral loss, and small holes can occur.
Signs of Tooth Decay
The signs and symptoms vary based on the extent and location of the decay. When a cavity is forming, there may not be any noticeable symptoms at all, which is why it’s so important to have routine check-ups with the dentist. However, as the decay grows, your child may experience:
- Sensitive teeth and gums
- Toothaches
- Bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- White, black, or brown spots on the tooth’s surface
- Visible pits or holes in the teeth
If your child experiences any of these symptoms, consult your pediatric or family dentist so they can help prevent the decay from worsening.
The Importance of Cavity Prevention
If left untreated, a decayed tooth can lead to serious health issues, such as tooth loss, gum disease , infection, and abscesses. An infection caused by severe decay can even enter the bloodstream and affect other parts of the body, such as the heart. Having a healthy mouth helps keep the body healthy.
How to Reduce Dental Decay
There are many ways one can reduce the risk of dental decay. Some of these techniques require a dentist’s help, while others can be accomplished at home.
#1 Brush and Floss Daily
Daily brushing and flossing are crucial for keeping cavities at bay. Brushing removes plaque and bacteria from the surface of teeth, while flossing cleans it from between the teeth and away from the gumline.
Your child’s toothbrush should have soft bristles. Brushing too hard or with stiff bristles can damage their enamel. Thick-handled toothbrushes may be easier for them to hold, and we also recommend practising brushing with your child so they know how to do it properly.
Flossing also helps stimulate the gums and prevent infection in the bone. Keeping gums and underlying bone in good condition is essential, so they can continue doing their important job of holding the teeth in place.
#2 Eat a Healthy Diet
Having a healthy mouth requires eating healthy foods. Orthodontics Australia (OA) states that fibre-rich fruits and vegetables help keep the teeth and gums clean and promote saliva production — all of which help reduce the risk of cavities. Sugary and starchy foods and drinks can aid the growth of cavity-forming bacteria. These unhealthy food items include soft drinks, juices, sugary cereals, candy, doughnuts, chips and biscuits. Instead of buying sugary snacks, opt for healthy foods and drinks like fruit, vegetables, water and milk.
#3 Get Regular Dental Exams and Cleanings
It is recommended that children see the dentist for an exam and gentle cleaning by their first birthday . During this first exam, the dentist checks your child’s mouth for any signs of decay, gum disease, and other abnormalities, and they can clean the gums or teeth to remove bacteria build-up. It is also suggested that children visit the dentist regularly on a schedule customised by their dentist.
#4 Use Fluoride When Needed
Fluoride helps prevent cavities , according to the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). Families and individuals living in communities with fluoridated tap water often have fewer cavities than those who don’t. The NHMRC also discovered that water fluoridation reduces dental decay by 26% to 44% in children and adolescents .
Children who brush their teeth daily with fluoride toothpaste have fewer cavities. Be sure you watch your child as they brush, so they don’t swallow the toothpaste. As they get older, they will be able to spit the toothpaste out in the sink on their own.
#5 Get Dental Sealants for Extra Protection
For many years, dentists and dental care professionals have used dental sealants to protect tiny teeth against cavities. Sealants are thin coatings that cover the chewing surfaces of back teeth. Dental sealants may prevent tooth decay and protect the teeth.
Home Care Tips
Healthy teeth and gums are essential for a functional and beautiful smile. A child’s oral health begins when they’re infants and carries on throughout their lives. Even before your child’s first tooth erupts, it’s essential you adequately care for their oral health. Here are some tips for how to care for your child’s teeth and gums as they grow.
Babies
Before their teeth come in, gently rub a soft, wet washcloth along their gums. This cleans and stimulates the gums, readying them for incoming teeth and promoting bone development. When your baby’s teeth come in, brush them with a soft, flexible infant toothbrush with a rice-size amount of ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste.
Toddlers and School-Age Children
- When your child’s teeth begin growing in next to each other and touch, begin gently flossing between their teeth to remove plaque buildup and reduce the risk of decay.
- Children under two years old should not use fluoride toothpaste. Children over the age of two should use only a small amount of ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride restores important minerals to the teeth and protects them from decay.
- Children often accidentally swallow toothpaste, which is why it’s recommended that they only use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste.
Pre-Teens and Teenagers
Teenagers must properly care for their permanent teeth, as these teeth are the ones they will have throughout their adulthood. Teenagers should brush their teeth with ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day, for at least two minutes each time.
Teenagers should also floss daily between their teeth to remove plaque. They should replace their toothbrushes every three months or more often if required, especially after an illness like strep throat.
For those with braces, use a floss threader or orthodontic floss to clean between teeth and behind each wire.
To maintain healthy, cavity-free teeth and gums, adolescents and teenagers should also avoid smoking and using tobacco products, limit sugary foods and drinks, and visit the dentist every six months for exams and cleanings.
Inheriting Healthy Habits
Having a healthy smile begins in childhood. If you are enthusiastic about brushing and flossing your teeth, your child will be too, and they are more likely to practice good oral hygiene throughout their lives. Kids usually want to do things their parents do, and if they see you demonstrating good hygiene habits, they will likely follow. In other words, when excitement spreads, cavities won’t!
Cavities are completely preventable with a good oral hygiene routine, a healthy diet, and the help of a skilled and experienced pediatric or family dentist.