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.

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.