5 Ways to Protect Your Child From Cavities

Cavities! No one likes them, but they are ubiquitous dental issues most patients, especially children, have to contend with. Groat Pediatric Dentistry loves to see children show off healthy, cavity-free smiles. Our team is dedicated to preventing cavities and treating them when they occur. With numerous preventative measures, such as fluoride treatments, sealants, and educational tools for at-home care, Dr. Christopher Groat works with parents and children to protect teeth from decay. When treatment is necessary, we offer gentle and effective solutions that keep smiles healthy and strong.

How to prevent cavities

Cavities form when plaque builds up on teeth. Plaque is a sticky film composed of bacteria, food particles, and saliva that coats the surfaces of teeth. When sugars and starches from food are left on the teeth, the bacteria in plaque feed on these substances, producing acids as a byproduct. These acids slowly erode the tooth’s enamel—the hard outer layer—and eventually penetrate deeper, forming a cavity.

Left untreated, cavities grow deeper and can cause pain and tooth loss. Good news! Dental cavities are easily preventable. Follow the tips below to keep your child cavity-free. 

1. Brushing: Your child should brush their teeth twice daily, ideally once in the morning and before bedtime. Since younger children (typically under eight) may not yet have the skill to brush thoroughly, help guide them during brushing. Ensure they clean all surfaces of each tooth and brush their tongue to remove bacteria and freshen their breath. This routine helps build good oral hygiene habits and keeps their smile healthy!
2. Flossing: Flossing removes plaque and food debris from areas the toothbrush can’t reach. Floss your child at least once daily until they can floss independently.
3. Proper nutrition: Sugary foods like candy, chocolate, juices, and soda are bad for your child’s oral health. Simple carbs like crackers and chips aren’t good for your child’s teeth. Harmful bacteria feed on sugars and starches in the mouth, secreting acidic substances that erode the enamel, causing tooth decay. Limit the intake of sugary treats and encourage healthy snacks like nuts, fruits, veggies, yogurt, and cheese. 
4. Routine dental cleanings: Brushing and flossing are essential, but you can’t be thorough enough to reach every tooth surface. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. Dental cleanings also include comprehensive exams that detect and treat oral issues before they progress.
5. Dental sealants: Is your child struggling with recurring cavities despite an optimal oral hygiene routine? Dental sealants might be the perfect solution. Applied as a thin, protective coating on the chewing surfaces of teeth, sealants shield vulnerable enamel from harmful acids and cavity-causing bacteria. The procedure is quick, painless, and non-invasive, giving long-lasting protection with minimal effort.
6. Fluoride treatments: Tooth decay is reversible at its earliest stage. Fluoride treatments remineralize the enamel to reverse dental caries and strengthen it against future decay. 

We understand despite your best efforts, cavities can still form. We aim to support cavity-free smiles with preventive care and effective treatments when needed. If a cavity has developed, Dr. Groat addresses it with a gentle, straightforward filling procedure. Our tooth-colored fillings blend seamlessly with the natural tooth, restoring function and appearance without compromising your child’s smile.

Schedule an appointment today!

Whether your child has a cavity or needs preventive care to ensure their teeth remain healthy, call (310) 832-5133 to schedule an appointment with Groat Pediatric Dentistry. Our office serves families in San Pedro, California, and beyond. 

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