Tooth decay in children is a very common problem. Studies show, about 42 percent children between 2-11 years of age suffers from cavities in their primary years and around 28 percent children from 2- 5 years develop at least one cavity in their childhood. Just because tooth decay is a common problem it does not mean that as a parent you should not do anything to prevent it or stop it in the track.
Children are highly prone to the problem of tooth decay as their enamel or the hard outer layer of the teeth is very soft as compared to adults. This tenderness of the enamel puts them at a higher risk of developing tooth decay easily.
They say “prevention is better than cure” and to a certain extent, tooth decay is preventable. From eating sugary stuff to erratic oral hygiene routine; tooth decay in children can happen due to numerous reasons. So as a parent if how to prevent tooth decay is one of your biggest concerns, worry not. We have got you covered ways that will not only answer questions related to how to stop tooth decay in your child but also give you tips on how not to let your child fall prey to this problem.
CAUSES OF TOOTH DECAY IN YOUNG CHILDREN
Knowing the causes of tooth decay will also help you understand how to prevent tooth decay better.
1. BACTERIA IN THE MOUTH -
The bacteria in the mouth also known as ‘Mutans Streptococci’ feed on sugar that we consume in the form of food and drinks. This bacterium secretes an acid, which sticks up to the enamel and damages the outer layer of teeth. Even though saliva is there to repair the damage but if the damage is more than repair, it results in a hole that is known as the cavity or dental caries.
2. IMPROPER DENTAL CARE -
Not brushing properly leads to weak teeth. Dental care is important at every age of life. If your baby is a toddler, and his first tooth shows up, then you are supposed to wipe that tooth with clean, damp cotton. If your child is grown up enough to brush his teeth on his own, you should supervise his routine and administer use of herbal paste like Dabur Meswak.
3. SUCKING ON BABY BOTTLE –
A common reason for tooth decay in children is going to bed with a bottle in their mouth. This is known as baby bottle tooth decay. The milk from the bottle most of the times sits up in baby’s mouth and serve as a perfect breeding ground for bacteria thus leading to the problem of tooth decay.
4. UNHEALTHY EATING HABITS -
Not keeping a tab on your child’s intake of candies and chocolates can prove harmful for his teeth in the long run. Too much sugar often leads to tooth decay.
5. MEDICAL CONDITIONS -
In some cases, medical conditions can trigger cavities. For instance allergies. Chronic allergies lead to mouth breathing instead of nasal breathing. It reduces the flow of saliva, which makes teeth prone to decay. Kids with medical conditions like asthma can suffer from the problem of tooth decay due to the medicine.
SYMPTOMS OF EARLY CHILDHOOD TOOTH DECAY
Unhealthy diet makes your gums unhealthy as well. It is one of the main causes of bleeding gums.
6. MEDICATION -
Tooth decay in children develops over a period of time and it can often be missed in the initial stages.It can appear as:-
- A dull white line. It forms on the surface of the tooth closer to the gums. This is the first sign of tooth decay that usually goes undetected.
- A black, brown or yellow band. This again is formed on the surface of the tooth and closer to the gum. It signifies the decay is in progress.
- Spotting or change in colour. Teeth start looking brownish or blackish in colour. This signifies that the decay has advanced now.
Early childhood tooth decay is hard to spot and in most cases by the time it comes to notice the damage would already have been done.
PREVENTING TOOTH DECAY IN YOUNG CHILDREN:
To prevent your child suffering from the problem of tooth decay, you must take the following steps:
1. NO BOTTLES TO BED -
In order to prevent tooth decay in young children, you should not let your child develop the habit of going to bed with a bottle. If your child is habitual of drinking something before sleeping then opt for making him sip water by the glass.
2. BRUSHING REGULARLY -
Inculcate In your child the habit of brushing teeth twice daily to prevent tooth decay, preferably with Dabur Babool. Packed with the power of Ayurvedic herbs it is an effective formula for reduction of plaque, decay and bad-breath among children.
9. NEW TOOTHBRUSH -
Bleeding gums while brushing teeth can be experienced if you have switched from soft bristled toothbrush to a hard bristled one.
3. SEE A DENTIST -
Oral check-ups must be done regularly even if your child’s teeth are pearly white and with no hint of cavities. See a dentist at least every six months to keep yourself updated on the causes of tooth decay and its prevention.
4. BE AN EARLY BIRD -
Want to know how to prevent tooth decay? Be an early bird. Early treatment of tooth decay will save you a lot of time, energy and money. Staying informed can also save you any need of major treatment and pain.
5. SPOT IT TO STOP IT -
That is right. How to stop tooth decay? Play close attention to your child’s teeth while brushing. If you spot anything unusual or he complains about toothache, consult a dentist. Need more tips on how to prevent the problem of tooth decay in your child? Follow our blog.
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