While many people are afflicted by cavities, kids and teens in the U.S. possess more than any other demographic in the country. A direct result of tooth decay, cavities can lead to sensitivity, pain, and without a filling procedure—even tooth loss. To help protect your children against this detrimental condition the expert kids’ dentist at Alaska Dentistry for Kids in Anchorage will explain what you need to know.

The earliest stages of a cavity begin with plaque formation. Plaque build-up occurs primarily from consuming sugary drinks and foods—meaning candy, soda, or even granola bars, fruit juices, and other sugary treats that many children consume regularly. The bacteria in your mouth love to feed on these sugars, producing acids that create that clear film coating the tooth. Soon, this plaque begins to erode the tooth’s enamel, making it vulnerable to small holes, or cavities in the teeth.

Once a cavity is detected, it’s important to address it immediately to prevent further damage. A dentist will need to remove the decayed part of the tooth and protect what’s left with a tooth filling. If the cavity remains untreated, a root canal or even tooth extraction may be necessary.

To protect your child’s tooth health and avoid unnecessary cavities and fillings, it’s important to maintain healthy oral hygiene on a consistent basis. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing once a day is vital to staving off decay. Visiting your child’s dentist regularly for a thorough check-up and teeth cleaning will also remove plaque and prevent damage. Finally, maintaining a healthy diet with plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits, and little processed sugar, is key to a bright, healthy smile. 

To help your children build strong, beautiful smiles for life, seek the expertise of Anchorage’s top kids’ dentist. Schedule an appointment at Alaska Dentistry for Kids by calling (907) 274-2525 today. For more information, visit the practice’s website.