Also known as cavities and tooth decay, dental caries are tiny holes in the teeth. They develop over time as bacteria produce acid that eats away at enamel. Children of all ages are susceptible to cavities, which is why early prevention is crucial. The pediatric dentists at Pedodontic Associates in Honolulu, HI, recommend the following tips to protect your child’s vulnerable baby teeth from decay.

Tips for Cavity Prevention

1. Drink More Water

When babies and toddlers are put to bed with a bottle full of dairy or breast milk, formula, or juice, the sugars constantly feed the bacteria in their mouth. If your baby won’t go to sleep without a bottle, give them water instead, or slowly dilute the milk or juice over a couple of weeks. Additionally, avoid giving children sippy cups full of sugary drinks.

2. Visit a Pediatric Dentist Early & Often

Children should see their pediatric dentist when their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday. Your child’s dentist is the best resource for proper at-home dental care. They can also monitor your child’s development, looking for early signs of problems. The earlier problems are detected and treated, the less impact they’ll have on your child’s future oral health.

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet

A well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables contains essential vitamins and minerals for strong, healthy teeth. Try to minimize snacking, particularly of sugary treats, as this can contribute to dental caries. If your child does want a snack, give them healthy options like an apple with peanut butter, both of which have benefits for growing teeth.

4. Monitor Fluoride Intake

Fluoride is a natural element that strengthens teeth, making them more resilient to decay. Because water in Hawaii is not fluoridated, monitor other sources closely. In small amounts, the element is beneficial, but too much can discolor permanent teeth. Some products contain fluoride, such as powdered and soy-based infant formula, infant dry cereals, and creamed spinach. Your pediatric dentist can also prescribe fluoride drops or tablets if needed.

5. Instill Good Dental Hygiene Habits

You can still prepare infants without any teeth for good dental hygiene. After a feeding, wipe their gums with a wet cloth, which will acclimatize them to the sensation of mouth cleaning. Your pediatric dentist can help teach proper brushing techniques as their teeth begin to erupt. When they can brush on their own, show them how to care for their teeth and find ways to make it fun. Instilling good habits now will go a long way for their oral health later in life.

If you want your child to see one of the best pediatric dentists in Hawaii, take them to Pedodontic Associates on Oahu and Maui. For over 25 years, these renowned children’s dentists have provided exceptional dental care for kids of all ages. To schedule an appointment, call one of their offices: (808) 735-1733 for Honolulu, (808) 487-7933 for Aiea, and (808) 877-0066 for Kahului. Visit their website for more information about their services.