Preventing Cavities for Children

Tooth decay in children under the age of six (also known as early childhood caries) is a common chronic health condition that disproportionately affects minority and low-income children. Children with untreated cavities frequently experience pain and infections, which can interfere with eating, speaking, playing, and learning. As a result, children with poor oral health frequently miss more school and have lower grade point averages than children with good oral health. Children who develop tooth decay (or cavities) at a young age are more likely to develop lifelong oral health issues.

This article will discuss the causes of childhood caries as well as how to prevent them. More information is provided below.

Why Does My Child Keep Getting Cavities?

All children can be at risk for tooth decay and many factors can contribute to the incidence of tooth decay. According to the CDC, tooth decay (aka Dental Caries) remains one of the most common childhood diseases. It is important to seek regular dental care (6 month check-ups/examinations) so that a dentist can evaluate your child for preventive care, evaluation of caries risk, and examination of teeth and other oral structures. In this segment, we will discuss some of the sources, causes of dental decay and some preventive measures you can employ to help prevent dental decay.

We want to reiterate the importance of seeking regular dental care (6 month check-ups/examinations) so that your child’s dentist can evaluate your child’s teeth and other oral structures in the mouth. If the dentist finds that your child does have cavities/dental caries, your dentist will discuss with you treatment options in effort to address your child’s oral health. It is important to note that cavities that aren’t properly treated or managed have the potential to lead to more serious infections and pain which could impact the quality of life for your child including – speech development, learning, eating, pain, infection and general well being and overall health. Untreated decay can lead to more serious and debilitating illness and pain. We want to help ensure that every child experiences a childhood free of dental disease and illness through high quality preventive and restorative dental care!

If your child has dental decay, or has repeat incidence of dental decay, here are some things to know and consider:

Cavities are caused by bacteria

Unfortunately, tooth decay is rather common in children – it is preventable with excellent oral hygiene and diet practices, however, dental caries still remains one of the most common diseases that affects children of all ages. By the age of 4, more than 1 in every 4 children has at least one cavity. Some children do get cavities much earlier, so it’s very important to schedule your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday – to discuss prevention practices, dietary practices and other recommendations to help ensure your child has protective measures in place to help prevent tooth decay from developing. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 42% of children who are ages 2 to 11 develop a cavity in their baby (primary) teeth.

The group of germs (bacteria) that play a major role in development of tooth decay are called mutans streptococcus. These bacteria feed on sugar and produce acid that in time, will dissolve minerals on the outermost layer of the tooth, known as enamel. As decay progress, the inner layer of the tooth will also become affected – this layer is known as the dentin. When caries progresses even further, the nerve and blood vessels of the tooth can become affected. It is important to have best preventive practices in place at an early age.  It is also important to have regular dental examination for a dentist to examine for any signs of decay that might be present and to address accordingly. Regarding tooth decay, the first sign that minerals are being lost, a process known as ‘deminerilization’ is the development of white/chalky spots on the teeth. In time, as these areas break down, a cavity may form. These same bacteria are also responsible for contributing dental plaque—a soft, sticky, yellowish film that builds up on teeth and can further cause tooth decay and /or lead to gum disease (gingivitis, periodontitis, and other infections, health concerns) if not removed regularly.

Does Tooth Decay in Milk Teeth Affect Permanent Teeth?

Looking after our children’s baby teeth (also known as milk teeth) is just as important as looking after their adult teeth (permanent teeth).

Many of us think something like, “Well, they are temporary, they can’t really be that important, right?” or “Why worry about them when they are going to fall out anyway?”

The Australian Dental Association has released a report card called The Oral Health Tracker (the Tracker) that shows the current national status of the oral health of both adults and children here in Australia.

In 2018 an alarming 34.3% of children aged 5-6 years of aged have experienced decay in their baby teeth.

6.8% of children aged 5-14 years of age experienced a toothache, while 9.3 children out of every 1000 were hospitalized with dental problems that could have been prevented if they had visited a dentist sooner.

Why worry about temporary teeth?

Many parents wonder why, if baby teeth are going to fall out, they should be taken care of?

There are multiple reasons to take care of temporary teeth. Temporary teeth play an important part in speaking, eating, and even how we breathe.

Most importantly, for dental health, temporary teeth mark out space for the permanent adult teeth that will follow, helping them come in straight and regularly distributed.

Here is a closer look at the functions of baby teeth:

• Primary teeth make space for adult teeth and, when they erupt, guide them into the proper position in the bite. Early loss of primary teeth increase the chances of the child needed orthodontics.
• Dental pain from cavities can adversely affect chewing, leading to the possibility of poor nutrition. If cavities are unaddressed, an infection may set in and reach other areas of the body and the brain. This sadly can sometimes be fatal.
• If baby teeth develop an abscess or infection tooth development can be retarded, leading to damage to the permanent tooth below.
• The tongue, lips, and cheeks work together to help us speak. If baby teeth are lost prematurely, it can lead to permanent problems with pronunciation.
• Self-esteem – Decayed teeth are unattractive and can decrease a child’s confidence and self-esteem.

But it’s not just about keeping teeth safe:

• Childhood cavities are linked to malnutrition – low vitamin D, low calcium, and albumin concentrations, as well as elevated PTH levels.
• Childhood cavities are linked to eating disorders
• Childhood cavities are associated with Iron deficiency anaemia
• Childhood cavities are linked to extremes of failure to thrive and obesity

If decay is not properly treated, symptoms will continue to worsen, baby teeth can be lost, and even permanent teeth can be affected.

Here’s what you can do

• Instil excellent dental hygiene habits. Teaching your children good dental habits is a key part of parenting. You want to put your children on the path to good oral health and instilling good daily dental habits is one of the best ways to ensure this.

• Make brushing and flossing fun!One proven way to get your children in the habit of brushing their teeth twice a day is to lead them by example.Let your kids see you brush your teeth every morning and night. In fact, make it a habit of brushing and flossing with them. This makes sense, as until your kids reach six or seven, they will need your assistance with brushing and flossing. Electric toothbrushes can add fun to toothbrushing, just make sure they are being used correctly and for the same necessary two minutes each time. There are also many apps available now that will make toothbrushing fun for everyone.

• Toothbrushing.Begin brushing is as soon as the first baby teeth appear. Even before that, a parent or caregiver should use a clean, damp washcloth to gently wipe the infant’s gums to reduce bacteria build-up.

Starting at age 2, a brushing routine should be established using a smear of fluoride toothpaste. For toddlers, parents can use a child’s size soft toothbrush with water and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.

Children need help brushing until at least age 6, at which point they can take over brushing by themselves and also learn to floss.

Until this age children are simply not dexterous enough to manage sufficiently by themselves. A good guide is that if they are able to tie their own shoelaces or a bow, then they can brush their own teeth.

Reward your children for brushing their teeth

Purchase, print out, or make your own calendar. Every night or morning after your child has finished brushing his teeth, reward the effort with a sticker on the calendar to mark a successful cleaning.

If your child fills up a full month of the calendar with stickers, reward them with something like a bonus in allowance or a toy.

Regular Dental Visits

We recommend bringing children in for regular dental visits so that we can monitor their overall all oral health and hygiene habits. We can catch problems early and give tips and advice on how to improve cleaning techniques at home.

These appointments are always a lot of fun for the children and help to establish a trust and relaxed approach to treatments that older adults sometimes dread.

FAQ

Do Baby Teeth with Cavities Need to be Treated?

Everyone has primary (baby) teeth, and most people (around 60%) experience some level of tooth decay that affects baby teeth. But, baby teeth are temporary, and not as important as adult teeth, right? Wrong. Primary teeth don’t last forever, but they are not expendable and untreated cavities can cause serious immediate harm, and negatively affect how a young mouth develops.

YES – Cavities in Baby Teeth Must be Treated

Tooth decay is 5 times more common than asthma, 4 times more common than childhood obesity and 20 times more common than childhood diabetes. Tooth decay is an acid attack on tooth enamel that can lead to cavities – which are essentially holes in teeth. Cavities on baby teeth are treated with fillings, which help prevent the cavity from worsening or spreading.

When tooth decay is not treated by dental professionals, or with proper oral care, teeth can become riddled with cavities. Children with cavities affecting their primary teeth face many risks that affect their overall development.

Teeth Damaged by Cavities can:

– Impact children’s nutrition, and impede them from eating healthy food.

– Cause overbites, and bite alignment problems that require oral appliance to fix.

– Hinder adult teeth from growing in straight and healthy.

– Impede proper speech, and negatively affect self-esteem.

– Cause severe tooth pain, that worsens without treatment.

– Lead to infections that affect nearby teeth, and cause more cavities.

Baby teeth may be temporary, but their impermanence does not mean that they are not important. Children with cavities on their primary teeth face oral health challenges now, and in the future they mature into adults.

Symptoms of Baby Teeth with Cavities

It’s pretty easy to spot the symptoms of tooth decay and cavities, but only a dental professional can accurately diagnose and treat cavities in baby teeth. If your child exhibits any of the following, then schedule a visit with our office as soon as possible so we can treat the root of their oral health issues.

 Common symptoms of cavities in baby teeth:

– Pain in the tooth when chewing, or brushing.

– Pain below the gum line that is localized around on tooth or area.

– Increased sensitivity to temperature extremes, like hot or cold beverages.

– Visible holes, discolorations, or dark spots on teeth.

– Persistent bad breath that is not alleviated by consistent brushing or mouthwash.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay and Cavities

Cavities are the most prevalent childhood disease, but it’s also the most preventable. You can empower your child to prevent cavities and tooth decay by helping them get into a proper oral health routine, which means brushing twice per day for two minutes at a time, and flossing once per day. You can take easy dietary measures to prevent cavities, too. Try removing sugary beverages from their diet, and substitute them for water, which is one of the most powerful tools in the fight against cavities.

Prevent decay with Dental Sealants 

Indentations on the top of the molars typically hold onto more food particles and plaque and so are more vulnerable to ending up with cavities. Dental sealants, an effective aspect of preventive dentistry, are used to protect the teeth from damage resulting from decay. These thin preventive coverings are created from an invisible or white liquid that is brushed onto the occlusive surfaces of the back teeth. Once dried, dental sealants can defend these teeth and create a more even surface that is easier to keep plaque-free. Dental sealants don’t just stop cavities, but they could also lessen your family’s needs for tooth-coloured fillings or other corrective services down the road.

Who Is a Candidate for Sealants?

Youths in the age group 6 – 12 are usually more likely to develop decay on the occlusive surfaces of their permanent molars, so they are ideal candidates for dental sealants. In addition, those older than 12 might also consider getting sealants, for example, patients who have a hard time keeping up with optimal oral hygiene practices or who have a history of tooth decay. Receiving dental sealants is a straightforward, easy treatment that typically requires no anaesthesia. Set up a visit so a member of our dental staff can talk with you to find out if you might benefit from this simple and efficient option.

What Is the Sealant Process?

Prior to treatment, will need to evaluate the teeth to determine if dental sealants are the correct service for you or your child. To get your mouth ready for sealants, a professional on our staff will polish the enamel to get rid of any buildup, food particles, and germs from the crevices. The dried, and a fine film of sealant product is then distributed uniformly into the fissures with a tiny brush. An innovative curing light will be positioned on top of the tooth; this will strengthen the sealant covering in approximately 10 – 20 seconds. As soon as each sealant is set, our professionals will assess your chewing surfaces for alignment and provide you with tips on how to best care for your sealants.

Will Insurance Cover Dental Sealants?

Because sealants are largely applied as a preventive dental procedure, many dental insurance programs will cover them for kids or adolescents up to a specific age.

How can I help prevent dental decay/cavities in my child’s teeth?

There are certain measures you can take to help prevent or reduce the incidence or development of dental caries.

• Regular brushing and flossing: Brushing in the morning and before bed actually removes plaque – which can serve as the reservoir for bacteria, sugar. Flossing does the same and gets in between teeth – areas where tooth brush bristles are not able to reach.
• Begin oral/tooth cleanings when teeth erupt.
• Non-Fluoride tooth paste available for children under 2 years of age
• For High caries risk patients: by 2 years of age. (Parent supervision of age appropriate amount of paste –rice size/smear).
• Recommend parent/caregiver brush teeth until child is approximately 6 years of age and is able to demonstrate thorough brushing.
• Recommend brushing twice per day
• Bed time most critical time to brush
• Fluoride: fluoride toothpaste helps to restore minerals that were lost due to acid producing bacteria. Fluoride on tooth can also limit the activity acid that’s created. Fluoride that is ingested (foods/beverages) — most commonly from fluoride-treated water that we get from our water faucet in our homes, and sometimes via foods that were processed with fluoridated water. This also helps to strengthen teeth (potentially helping to strengthen permanent teeth that may be still developing under the baby teeth).
• Fluoridated Tooth Paste: The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry has the following recommendations regarding the use of Fluoride tooth paste.
• Fluoridated toothpaste (generally 0.1% F; 1,000 ppm F) should be used twice daily as a primary preventive procedure. Brushing twice daily has greater benefits than brushing once per day. It is important that a parent or other responsible adult, dispense the appropriate volume of toothpaste, based on child’s age, onto a soft, age-appropriate sized toothbrush. The parent should also supervise the frequency of brushing, and assist/participate in performing brushing teeth for young children.
  • For children less than 2 years of age, use only a ‘smear’ of fluoridated toothpaste is recommended
  • For children aged 2 through 5 years. A ‘pea-size’ amount of toothpaste is appropriate. To maximize the beneficial effect of fluoride in the toothpaste, rinsing after brushing should be kept to a minimum or eliminated altogether.

  Your dentist may recommend additional at-home topical fluoride regimens utilizing increased concentrations of fluoride if your child has an increased or high risk for dental caries. These may include over-the-counter (0.02% F; 200 ppm F) or prescription strength (0.09% F; 900 ppm F) formulations.

  Additionally when your child presents for their 6 month dental check-up, your dentist may recommend an professionally applied fluoride product known as fluoride varnish to further help strengthen and protect your child’s teeth from dental caries!

  There are many options for recommended exposure for fluoride including mouthwashes, supplements and treatments at the dental office. Please speak to your dentist to find out what’s the best option for your children.

  Less exposure to sugary or starchy foods: The more frequently sugary, starchy foods are consumed throughout the day and in between meals, the more bacteria can build up. Remember, the bacteria build up, digest the sugar and produce acid as a waste product. The bacteria feeds on sugar – the acid by-product can lead to loss of the minerals in the tooth surface – leading to dental caries ‘Cavities’.  Try to limit the sugary and starchy (chips, breads, cookies, etc.) snacks your child eats. Starch turns into sugar once eaten. It is especially important to avoid starches and sugars before bedtime

• Visit the dentist regularly: Children should have their first dental visit by their first birthday, and then every six months for a cleaning and check-up/examination. The early preventive measures are very important to help prevent decay from forming. If decay is already present – early detection is best to address before the dental caries progresses further potentially requiring more extensive treatment.

• Dental Sealants: Dental sealants can be an excellent preventive measure. Depending on your child’s age, caries susceptability and caries risk assessment, your child’s dentist may recommend sealants to the chewing surface of molars. In many cases, dental sealants are recommended for your child’s permanent molars. A dental sealant is a flowable plastic type material that bonds to the tooth. It is applied on the chewing surface of molars – it helps to ‘seal’ the deep grooves on the tooth surface which helps to ensure that the tooth has a smooth surface that a tooth brush can more easily clean.
• We always encourage you to speak with your child’s dentist to help ensure your child has the preventive measures in place to help reduce the chances of dental caries developing in your child’s teeth. Please feel free to ask any questions you may have!

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Dr. Zenaidy Castro understands the impact a beautiful smile can have on your daily life. She takes the time to listen to each patient’s goals in order to produce the best results for everyone who wants to have a better smile.

Dr. Zenaidy Castro love transforming smiles through cosmetic dentistry, and with her  vast experience of over 30 years,  the care and aesthetic results she provides for all her patients is unmatched. What sets her apart is her careful eye for detail and ensure they have superior results that meet her patients expectations.

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