4 Ways to Help Your Kids Prevent Cavities

Cavities are one of the most common health conditions of childhood, affecting over half of kids by age 11. But the good news is that cavities are largely preventable with good oral hygiene habits and regular dental care.

By teaching your kids to take care of their teeth and working with your dentist to provide preventive treatments, you can set them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

1 – Build Good Brushing and Flossing Habits

The foundation of cavity prevention is a consistent oral hygiene routine. As soon as your child’s first tooth appears, it’s time to start brushing. Here are some tips for making brushing and flossing a fun and effective part of your child’s daily routine.

Choose the Right Tools

Look for a child-sized toothbrush with soft bristles and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice for babies, a pea-sized amount for kids 3 and up). If your child is resistant to traditional flossing, try kid-friendly flossers or interdental brushes.

Make It Fun

Turn brushing into a game by playing music, using a timer, or letting your child choose their toothbrush color or flavor. You can also reward good brushing behavior with stickers or small prizes.

Be Consistent

Aim to brush twice a day for two minutes each time, and floss once a day. Make oral hygiene a non-negotiable part of your child’s daily routine, just like getting dressed or eating breakfast.

2 – Get Professional Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. While most toothpastes and many public water supplies contain fluoride, some kids may benefit from additional fluoride treatments at the dentist’s office.

What They Are

Professional fluoride treatments are highly concentrated forms of fluoride that are applied directly to the teeth. They come in the form of gels, foams, or varnishes and are usually applied using a brush or tray.

How Often to Get Them

The frequency of professional fluoride treatments depends on your child’s individual needs, but most kids get them every 6-12 months as part of their regular dental check-ups.

Are They Safe?

Professional fluoride treatments are safe and effective when used as directed by your dentist. Your child may be advised not to eat or drink for 30 minutes after the treatment to allow the fluoride to fully absorb into the teeth.

3 – Consider Sealants

Dental sealants are another tool in the cavity-prevention toolbox. They’re thin, protective coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, where cavities are most likely to form. 1.

How They Work

Sealants fill in the grooves and crevices on the molars and premolars, creating a smooth surface that’s easier to keep clean. They act as a barrier, protecting the teeth from the bacteria and acid that cause cavities.

When to Get Them

Sealants are usually recommended for kids as soon as their permanent molars come in, typically around age 6 for the first set and age 12 for the second set. Some kids may also benefit from sealants on their baby teeth if they have deep grooves or a history of cavities.

How Long They Last

Sealants can last for several years with proper care, but they may need to be reapplied if they become worn or chipped. Your dentist will check the sealants at each visit and recommend touch-ups as needed.

4 – Regular Dental Check-ups

Taking your child for regular dental appointments every 6 months not only helps to discover cavities earlier (when they are more easily treated) but can help prevent them, too. In addition to providing fluoride treatments and sealants, we thoroughly clean your child’s teeth. This professional cleaning makes teeth cleaner than brushing and flossing alone.

If it’s been a while since your child’s last dental check-up or you have concerns about their oral health, don’t wait – give us a call today to schedule an appointment. Together, we can help your child build habits and receive treatments that will protect their smile for years to come!