Cavities can affect your child at any age, even as an infant or toddler. This might be due to drinking sugary liquids or improper bottle-feeding close to bedtime.
You can help your child prevent cavities with regular oral hygiene habits such as tooth brushing and flossing twice daily. Brushing and flossing can wash away the film on your child’s teeth that can accumulate every day. Toothpaste can help neutralize the acid in your child’s mouth.
Your child’s teeth will fall out eventually. But they still need teeth to chew and speak properly. Having teeth extracted up to six months before they are ready to come out can affect how adult teeth come in or change your child’s eating habits.
Keep an eye out for early childhood cavities (ECC). This usually happens with babies or toddlers who fall asleep with a bottle in their mouth or while breastfeeding. Saliva decreases in your mouth at night, diminishing the natural cleansing action of your mouth.
You might see early childhood cavities start with the front teeth. If this happens, tooth decay should be immediately addressed to preserve the integrity of the teeth.. Your family dentist might recommend fillings to preserve the front teeth and ensure healthy, strong teeth.
Your child’s family dentist can help you and your child develop strong oral hygiene habits at an early age. Our pediatric dentist, Dr. Scott, will examine your child’s mouth and give you recommendations on how best to take care of their teeth.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a time that’s convenient for you! We’re a family dentist in Springfield, Missouri, caring for your child and the entire family’s dental care.
