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How to Keep Your Kids Cavity-free

It isn't uncommon for children as young as 18 months of age to end up requiring 8 to 10 fillings. The prevalence of sippy cups, all-day snacking, drive-through eating, and of course sugar are all fueling this epidemic. But parents who take a few simple precautions can avoid a lifetime of dental headaches for their children.

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    Difficulty:
    Easy

    Instructions

      • 1

        Understand the causes of tooth decay. Most people aren't aware that cavities are actually contagious. Children of cavity-free parents are less likely to get cavities. Why? The bacteria that consumes sugars and produces acid which eats tooth enamel does not occur naturally in our mouth. Cavity-causing bacteria is deposited in children's mouths by their caregivers, parents and siblings.

      • 2

        Get your cavities filled before you bring your baby home -- and that goes for mothers, fathers, siblings, and anyone who will have frequent contact with the child. Even if you haven't had a cavity for years, you still harbor the bacteria. Active cavities obviously mean more bacteria in your mouth. Getting them filled goes a long way to bringing down the level of bacteria in your mouth.

      • 3

        Keep your child's mouth free of the bacteria that causes cavities. Of course kisses are okay! But never share utensils or toothbrushes with your baby or child; never clean off a nipple or pacifier by licking it. If you test food for temperature, always do so with a separate portion or clean spoon.

      • 4

        Educate caregivers about the risk of these practices as well.

    Tips & Warnings

    • Be sure to practice proper gum cleansing and then tooth brushing in addition to these precautions.

    • If you give your baby a bottle for comfort at night, be sure that it contains only water. Avoid sippy cups, having snacks available all day, and eating in the car. A single raisin or sip of juice every 15 minutes gives bacteria a steady enough flow of fuel to blacken any toddler's smile.

    • White spots on a baby's teeth are signs of decay. If you see white spots on your baby's teeth, see a pediatric dentist immediately.

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