If your child has started to exhibit some of the signs of tooth decay, one of the most common questions we receive from parents is regarding how to stop tooth decay from spreading. We know that tooth decay is something that no parent or child wants to deal with, but for many of us, it’s something that will happen throughout our lives. Keep reading to discover what tooth decay is and how to stop tooth decay from spreading.
What is tooth decay?
Before going any further, let’s recap what tooth decay is. Tooth decay is a type of tooth damage that is caused by dental plaque turning sugars into acid. When this plaque builds up, it can result in tooth decay and gum disease. Tooth decay is caused by various factors, such as bacteria in the mouth and anyone not cleaning their teeth properly. While we can certainly assist with tooth decay in most cases, you also want to discover how to stop tooth decay from spreading. This can help to minimize the chance of future issues for your child in the future.
4 Tips for Stopping Tooth Decay From Spreading
The good news is that there are ways to stop tooth decay from spreading. If your child has been told they have signs of tooth decay by our team, make sure you work with them to reduce the chance of it spreading in the future. We’ll be happy to keep an eye on their teeth over the upcoming months and years as well so that we can prevent further treatment from being needed.
1. Brush Your Teeth Carefully
We all know that kids don’t want to waste precious playtime brushing their teeth, but it’s critical to keep cavities at bay. Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes is the recommendation for children, but you need to also focus on the quality of their brushing. If you know your child has a tendency to rush brushing their teeth, try to supervise them and time the two minutes. This will help to prevent future tooth decay by removing bacteria and food particles from the mouth.
2. Drink More Water
Water has so many benefits to our overall health, but it’s particularly important to keep hydrated if you are suffering from tooth decay. When the mouth is too dry, you’ll find that bacteria builds up more quickly. In the long run, this can cause more cavities. Make sure your child is drinking enough water throughout the day, and try to replace sugary drinks with water where possible. We know this is easier said than done, but it will be a key part of learning how to stop tooth decay from spreading.
3. Discuss Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a good option for children whose teeth are susceptible to cavities and decay. When a fluoride varnish is placed on the teeth, it will stop the bacteria from multiplying and building up the enamel on the teeth. This helps to make the teeth much stronger, which prevents future cavities. Our team will be able to see if this is an option for your child, which is why we recommend regular check-ups. The sooner a cavity is identified, the more we can do to slow down tooth decay.
4. Book Regular Check-Ups With Your Dentist
As a parent without dental experience, there’s only so much you can do to help your child. Some symptoms of tooth decay are almost impossible to see with the human eye. That’s why we recommend that all our patients come to visit us for a check-up at least twice a year. We’ll be able to check each of your child’s teeth to identify any potential areas of tooth decay. The sooner we can find an issue, the quicker we’ll be able to resolve it.
By following these tips for how to stop tooth decay from spreading, you’ll find that you can keep your child’s teeth in good condition for years to come. We are here to support you if you do find that your child is experiencing decay, and you can be sure we’ll find the right treatment solution for your child’s unique needs.
Keep Your Family’s Teeth Healthy with the Help of Florida Children’s Dentistry
Going to the dentist can be scary — we get it. But it should be fun! Whether it’s care for baby teeth, big kid teeth, oral surgery, or orthodontics, our team of specialized pediatric dentists make the experience memorable while teaching you how to encourage healthy habits and good hygiene for lifelong smiles. Call us today or request an appointment online. We can’t wait to meet you!