Preventing Cavities

Our bodies create a natural defense, which is the first stage of digestion: saliva. But we still need help to avoid cavities from developing.

The best way to prevent cavities, however, is to brush and floss your child's teeth twice daily. For infants, use a small, damp piece of clean cloth to 'wipe' their teeth. Good oral hygiene removes bacteria and the left over food particles that combine to create cavities.

Fluoride is a natural material that also helps re-mineralize the tooth structure. It is used in community water systems and is a main ingredient in most all toothpastes. The doctor may recommend a fluoride supplement if he or she is at medium to high risk for cavities which may include special high concentration fluoride gels, mouth rinses, or dietary fluoride supplements.

Children are the most susceptible to developing cavities. Heredity also may play a major role in how susceptible your child's teeth are to the formation of a cavity. For example, tooth structure, size, and shape may be passed down through many generations. This includes deep pits and grooves, which are ideal "plaque traps."

Many cavities originate in the hard-to-clean areas between teeth and in the fissures and pits - the edges in the tooth crown and gaps between teeth.

Common symptoms of a possible cavity may include:

• A painful toothache
• Higher sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweets
• Tooth discolorations

Often, cavities develop without any pain or other symptoms. This is why regular, 'healthy' visits to the dentist are so vital. Left untreated, cavities can lead to more serious problems for your child, such as infection of the core of the tooth (pulp) or root canal, permanent deterioration, and even loss of the tooth itself. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends six month visits to the pediatric dentist beginning at your child's first birthday. Routine visits will start your child on a lifetime of good dental health.

Your child should avoid frequent consumption of high sugar foods, especially sticky foods, because the longer the food stays on your teeth and gums, the greater the likelihood a cavity will form. Healthy snacks that are low in sugar include white milk, fresh fruits, raw vegetables, dark breads, whole grain and enriched cereals, sugar free candies, gum and other snacks. High sugar foods are best eaten with a regular meal.