Cavity Prevention

Most of the time, cavities are due to a diet high in sugary foods and a lack of brushing. Limiting sugar intake and brushing regularly can help, of course. The longer it takes your child to chew his/her food and the longer the residue stays on the teeth, the greater the chances cavities forming.

Every time people eat, an acid reaction occurs inside their mouths, as the bacteria digests the sugars. This reaction lasts approximately 20 minutes. During this time, the acid environment can destroy the tooth structure, eventually leading to cavities.

The consistency of a person's saliva also makes a difference; thinner saliva breaks up and washes away food more quickly. When people eat diets high in carbohydrates and sugars, they tend to have thicker saliva, which in turn allows more of the acid-producing bacteria that can cause cavities.

The first baby teeth that appear in the mouth are the two bottom front teeth. You will notice these when your baby is about 6-8 months old. Next to follow will be the four upper front teeth; the remainder of your baby's teeth will appear periodically after this. They will usually appear in pairs along the sides of the jaw until the child is about 2 1/2 years old.

At around 2 1/2 years old, your child should have all 20 teeth. Between the ages of 5 and 6, the first permanent teeth will begin to erupt. Some of the permanent teeth replace baby teeth, and some don't. Don't worry if some teeth are a few months early or late, as all children are different.

Baby teeth are important as they not only hold space for permanent teeth but they are important to chewing, biting, speech and appearance.

For this reason, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and daily hygiene.

What is fluoride?

Fluoride helps make teeth strong and prevents tooth decay. If the water where you live does not have enough fluoride, your doctor may prescribe fluoride supplements (fluoride drops or pills). You would give these drops or pills every day, starting when your child is about 6 months old. Only give as much as the directions say to use, because too much fluoride can cause spots on your child's teeth. Also, be sure to call your local water authority and ask if your water is fluoridated. If it is, tell your dentist or pediatrician so that your child is not being over fluoridated. Children should take these drops or pills until they are 12 to 16 years old (or until you move to an area with fluoride in the water).

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