Food, Teeth and Bacteria

Why does children get cavities? How to reduce chances of cavities in children?

What causes tooth decay or cavities in teeth?

Dental Plaque is a biofilm comprising food and bacteria. This sticky layer of plaque creates an acidic environment and causes demineralisation/cavities on teeth surfaces. The longer this triad of food, bacteria, and teeth stays; the more damage it causes.

How to break this triad?

Brushing and Flossing break this triad and prevents decay/cavities. Diet, ingredients of food and frequency of food consumed are all inter-linked to cause cavities.

Let’s learn how to reduce the chances of cavities in your child’s teeth and get them a beautiful and happy smile.

Reduce intake of unhealthy snacks to children.

Sugars, sticky foods top the list of foods bad for one’s teeth. Lessening sugary drinks, juices and lowering intake of sticky snacks like candies and chocolate. Foods rich in sugar increases the chances of having cavities.

Provide healthy snacks to children

A healthy diet is the road to a healthy life. ‘Start them young’. Providing healthy snacks improve general health as well as reduce the chances of cavities. Use cheese, plain yogurt, nuts, fruits, and vegetables as a healthy alternative snack.

Brushing and keeping teeth clean for longer hours;

Brushing twice daily and flossing at least once a day is a great beginning towards a healthy mouth. Brushing after breakfast will help stay clean until your next meal. Brushing before going to bed will keep the mouth clean until your meal the next morning. So, you are not providing any meal for bacteria in your mouth to cause any cavities while sleeping.

Flossing at least once daily:

Bristles of a toothbrush doesn’t go in between adjacent teeth; where food traps and bacteria hide. Only flossing will be able to keep these areas clean. You can floss twice a day, but the minimum is at least once a day and preferably at night only.

Regular Dental exam and teeth cleaning:

First tooth and first visit. Canadian Dental Association recommends that parents should take their child to the dentist within 6 months of the eruption of first baby tooth or 1 year of age; whichever is earlier. Regular visits to the dentist will help to catch dental problems at an early stage. Dentist will be able to make positive suggestions customized to the current condition and needs of your child.