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HOW TO PREVENT TOOTH DECAY By Monika B. Pis, PhD, CPNP
S
ince the state of your children’s teeth and gums reflects their overall health,
it’s important to establish good dental care as early as possible. However, if you have not already done so, it’s never too late to begin. Tooth decay remains one of the most common diseases of childhood. It is five times as common as asthma and seven times as common as hay fever, but you can avoid cavities with some preventative measures. Tooth enamel undergoes a constant
process of mineralization and deminer- alization. As long as there is a balance between the two processes, teeth remain healthy. Various factors — such as bacte- ria and sugar — may disrupt this balance and create an environment conducive to dental disease. Bacteria that contribute to dental disease ferment sugars and create an acidic environment in the mouth that leads to cavity formation and unhealthy gums. Studies show that inflammation caused by unhealthy gums may result in heart disease and stroke. Therefore, teaching your kids to take good care of their teeth early on is in their best interest. Strategies to prevent dental disease
follow. Ready, Set, Grow
Start Dental Care Early Dental care should start right after your baby is born. After feedings, wipe your infant’s mouth clean with a wet washcloth. Avoid bathing your baby’s teeth in for- mula by not letting her fall asleep while drinking a bottle. Introduce your baby to a sippy cup at six months, and wean her off a bottle after the first birthday.
Avoid Sharing Germs Certain bacteria, such as streptococ- cus mutans, are associated with cavity formation. Strong evidence exists that an important factor linked to increased cavity risk in young kids is recent or cur- rent presence of dental disease in their caregivers. Bacteria responsible for tooth decay are transferred through saliva when sharing utensils, blowing on food or kiss- ing children on the mouth.
Decrease Sugar Exposure Sugar is a critical risk factor for the devel- opment of tooth decay. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the following factors place your child at high risk for cavities: continual bottle or sippy cup use, sleeping with a bottle con- taining fluids other than water, frequent sugary snacks and beverages, cooked
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