How to Prevent Tooth Decay in Babies and Children

Cavities are one of the most common problems in the world and, when discovered early, are easy to treat and painless, unlike when the problem is left to progress for too long. Tooth decay consists of small holes in the teeth caused by the action of bacteria in the mouth that break down the tooth. Teeth are covered by an enamel layer that serves to protect them from external factors, and if for any reason this protection is lost, the teeth are exposed to germs. The attack can affect the entire structure of the tooth, beginning as a tiny hole and, if left untreated, can eventually destroy the whole tooth, resulting in tooth loss.

What not everyone knows is that tooth decay is actually considered a disease, and worse, an infectious one, which is also contagious, so extra care is needed. Food debris, along with saliva and the bacteria living in the mouth, form plaque on the teeth, most commonly found on the back molars, and if not properly removed, it can turn into tartar, where the proliferation of bacteria responsible for the appearance of cavities occurs. Plaque on the tooth generates acids that dissolve and completely damage the tooth’s protective enamel. This usually does not cause pain or tooth sensitivity, except when the cavity has already reached the nerves inside the tooth or if the tooth is already fractured. Another obvious symptom of tooth decay is bad breath and swollen gums.

Tooth Decay in Children

Cavities in children can cause discomfort, pain, and in some cases even tooth loss, which in addition to the whole situation, can lead to embarrassment from missing or damaged teeth and affect self-esteem as they grow. When the health of baby teeth is compromised, permanent teeth can also be affected, sometimes resulting in permanent teeth emerging misaligned or crooked. That’s why, when a cavity is discovered, a dentist should be consulted as soon as possible for an assessment and proper treatment.

The best way to prevent cavities in children is to teach them good hygiene habits and remove anything from their routine that could interfere with those habits. At bedtime, create a new routine by not allowing the bottle or “binky” in bed or in the crib. If the child likes to drink milk, have them do it before lying down; brush their teeth properly and only then go to bed. If the habit for sleeping is a bottle, instead of sugary drinks or even plain milk, introduce water, which poses no risk to teeth. For children who are used to carrying their bottle around and drinking everything from it throughout the day, this should also be avoided.

Practice oral hygiene after every meal, even if it’s just juice, tea, or soda. In the case of babies, clean the mouth using a moistened cloth diaper or gauze, or use baby toothbrushes. For older children, hygiene should be done with a soft-bristled toothbrush, suitable toothpaste, and if the dentist deems necessary, an added children’s fluoride supplement. Our children’s dental health depends solely on us and the values we teach them. A baby who gets used to oral hygiene will grow up accustomed to this routine without major issues or stress and will carry these habits for the rest of their life.