How to Prevent Cavities Before They Start
Cavities are one of the most common dental issues, but the good news is that they are preventable. At Smiley Kids Dental, we are all about preventive oral health! Whether you’re asking yourself, “Does baking soda prevent cavities?” or “Does chewing gum prevent cavities?” we have all the answers. Keep reading to discover the best way to prevent cavities before they ever develop!
What Is a Cavity?
A cavity, or tooth decay, is an area of permanent damage on the surface of your teeth that develops into a small hole. Untreated cavities can lead to even more serious dental problems like infections and tooth loss. Cavities can form anywhere, but a cavity on the front tooth, a cavity on the side of the tooth, or even a wisdom tooth cavity can occur.
The Best Ways to Prevent Cavities Are Given Below:
1. Brush and Floss Every Day
Brushing and flossing are both key to preventing cavities. Ensure your child brushes their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and uses dental floss at least once a day to remove food particles and plaque.
2. Use Fluoride Products
Fluoride strengthens enamel and protects against cavities. Only fluoride can reduce the risk of cavities by up to 68%, and it can be obtained from drinking fluoridated water, using fluoride toothpaste, and using professional fluoride treatments at Smiley Kids Dental.
3. Eat a Balanced Diet
Sugar-laden foods and beverages are the top culprits of cavities. Ask your child to eat a balanced diet packed with fruits, vegetables, dairy and whole grains. Steer clear of sticky, sugary snacks that can cling to teeth and contribute to decay.
4. Does Chewing Gum Prevent Cavities?
Sugarless gum, especially those containing xylitol, can reduce the risk of cavities, as chewing gum stimulates saliva and helps wash away food and neutralize acids. But gum can never replace brushing and flossing.
5. Does Baking Soda Prevent Cavities?
Baking soda may help neutralise acids in your mouth and lower the risk of cavities. Some toothpaste formulations include baking soda for an added safety net, but baking soda should not be substituted for fluoride toothpaste.
6. Does Mouthwash Prevent Cavities?
Fluoride mouthwash can be a great addition to your kid's dental care routine. It kills bacteria, provides fresh breath, and strengthens enamel. But it must be supervised because it can be swallowed.
7. Get a Protective Coating on Teeth
Apply a protective coating on teeth dental sealants, a thin protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of molars. It offers an added layer of protection against cavities. At Smiley Kids Dental, we suggest sealants for kids to protect their teeth from decay.
8. Routine Dental Visits
Visits to the dentist for regular checkups and cleaning play an integral role in the early detection of cavities as well as prevention. Smiley Kids Dental provides checkups and cleanings so your child’s teeth stay cavity-free!
How a Cavity in a Tooth Appears?
Cavities can show up from white spots to brown or black stains to what dentists call visible holes in the teeth. So, if your child is experiencing tooth sensitivity or pain, this can be a sign of a cavity. Whether it’s a cavity in a tooth or a front tooth cavity, we’re here at Smiley Kids Dental to assist you.
Wrapping it up!
With the right oral hygiene practices and professional help, cavities can be avoided. Whether your little one needs assistance with daily brushing, fluoride treatments, or dental sealants, Smiley Kids Dental is here to keep your child’s smile healthy. If you suspect a cavity tooth issue, schedule an appointment now and let’s keep your child’s teeth healthy and disease-free for a lifetime of healthy smiles!