Brushing twice a day keeps cavities away for children
Cavities remain the most common chronic disease of childhood in the United States, affecting about half of children by age 8, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Untreated tooth decay can lead to pain and infections that interfere with eating, speaking, playing and learning.
“Oral health affects a child’s overall health and the earlier parents introduce good oral hygiene habits, the more likely children are to maintain those habits throughout their lives,” said Dr. Pia Chatterjee Kirk, dean of the University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Dentistry. “Preventing dental decay and other oral diseases is always the best approach.”
The CDC advises parents and caregivers to begin caring for a baby’s mouth before the first birthday, wiping gums with a soft, clean cloth and, once teeth appear, brushing twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Children should see a dentist by their first birthday or when the first tooth erupts.
“Early dental visits allow us to educate families and identify potential problems before they become more serious,” Kirk said.
Good daily habits are key. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste helps prevent cavities, and dental sealants can protect the chewing surfaces of back teeth from decay for years. Children in communities with fluoridated water tend to have fewer cavities than those without.
“Brushing twice daily, limiting sugary foods to mealtimes, reducing acidic drinks and snacks and making sure children receive adequate fluoride can make a significant difference in their oral health,” Kirk said.
Diet plays a significant role, too. Frequent consumption of sugary snacks and drinks increases the risk of tooth decay, while water and nutrient-rich foods support better oral health.
“A high-sugar diet combined with poor oral hygiene can quickly lead to dental decay, while acidic foods and beverages can erode tooth enamel and make teeth more susceptible to sensitivity and cavities,” she said.
Kirk encourages parents to remain vigilant for warning signs of dental issues in children, including dark spots on teeth that cannot be brushed away, bumps or swelling along the gums, changes in eating habits or children pulling away during brushing. “These can all be indicators of underlying dental problems that should be evaluated by a dentist,” Kirk said.
To make an appointment with UMMC Dentistry, call 601-815-5461 or click here.
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