From the time your children first develop teeth, you need to start caring for them. Any tooth in the mouth can be susceptible to bacterial growth and cavities. That’s why you should be brushing your child’s teeth and teaching them how to do so as they get older. Preventing tooth decay is the best way to give your children a bright oral health future. If your child develops cavities when they’re young, this can have a lasting impact on them in the future. In today’s blog, we explore why early childhood oral healthcare is so important, and what you can do to help your child.

Even Though the Teeth Aren’t Permanent, They Still Need Protection

Your child’s teeth will eventually fall out and be replaced by adult teeth, however, that doesn’t mean that the health of these teeth is any less valuable. Infections and cavities can spread to other oral tissues that aren’t replaced — like the gums — and cause serious harm. Tooth decay is a progressive condition, which means that as long as it’s allowed to continue to develop and spread, it will continue doing more significant damage to your teeth. Shutting down tooth decay and protecting teeth by brushing and flossing is vital.

Protecting Baby Teeth Is Also About Establishing Good Habits

The other reason that it’s important to avoid childhood cavities is that it sets a strong precedent. Often, regular brushing, flossing, and dentist appointments are enough to keep your teeth healthy and cavity-free. If your child is developing cavities in their baby teeth, it may be a sign that your home care routine isn’t consistent enough. Teach your children that the health of their teeth is important. Proper brushing technique and thoroughness when brushing are just as important as remembering to brush twice a day.

For Added Protection for Your Children’s Teeth, Talk to Your Dentist

Of course, teeth brushing may not be easy for your child. It’s a new skill that takes time to build, and reaching tricky back teeth is a concern for patients of all ages. For added protection during your child’s formative years, you should talk to your dentist. Your dentist will likely recommend a treatment like fluoride rinse to help fortify the enamel of your child’s teeth. Your dentist may also suggest dental sealants, which can cover the surfaces of tough-to-reach teeth and keep bacteria away as your child develops. Taking these preventive steps can keep your child from dealing with cavities.

Cedar Dental Provides Preventive Care for Your Child’s Teeth

The best preventive step you can take is to make sure your child is attending biannual checkups at the dentist’s office. During these appointments, your dentist can recommend added care and make sure your child’s teeth are developing properly. To schedule a checkup for your child, contact Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA at 319-564-7108.