Have you children developed a cavity? Tooth decay can be uncomfortable and in the advanced stages, a threat to the stability of the tooth. Losing teeth prematurely can lead to misalignment and other serious complications. How do kids avoid cavities? What can you do to help protect their smiles?
Quiz: How Do Kids Avoid Cavities?
- True or False: Kids need to brush and floss.
- True or False: Sugary drinks and snacks can impact teeth.
- True or False: We can help protect teeth with dental sealants.
- True or False: A toothache can be a sign of trouble.
Answer Key
- True. Just like you, children need to brush their teeth in the morning and again before going to bed. They also need to floss each night before bed. For young children, a floss pick may be easier to handle, especially if you need to help them. You should also purchase age appropriate toothbrushes for your kids.
- True. When your kids eat and drink items that contain a high amount of sugar, bacteria can break down the sugar particles, increasing oral acidity and coating the teeth in plaque buildup. Over time, these factors can lead to cavities. Your kids should eat healthier snacks, such as fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, and dairy products in lieu of candy and chips. We also suggest drinking water instead of soda, energy drinks, or sports drinks.
- True. A dental sealant is a plastic coating we place over the rear molars. These teeth are often difficult for kids to reach when brushing. Eventually, food can remain trapped between them and increase the risk of tooth decay. The sealants prevent food from becoming stuck between the teeth.
- True. If you children complain of a persistent toothache or of sensitive teeth, then see us right away for a diagnosis.