If you’ve been to the pediatric dentist recently and discovered your child has cavities, you may be wondering how they developed. From dietary choices to oral hygiene habits, there are several reasons your child may have cavities. To make your child’s pediatric dentist appointments easier and avoid decay, consider these four leading causes of cavities in children.

4 Top Causes of Tooth Decay in Children

1. Poor Brushing Habits

Brushing regularly and properly is crucial to keeping your child’s teeth healthy. While it’s important for your children to learn how to brush on their own, you want to make sure you monitor their timing. Children tend to rush through brushing their teeth, which leaves food particles trapped between teeth and prone to plaque development. Encourage your children to sing their ABCs twice when brushing their teeth and make sure they don’t miss any spots.

2. Skipping the Floss

Flossing can be time-consuming and tedious, which is why many parents and children skip this important oral care habit. Not only does flossing help remove leftover food particles, but it also builds healthy gums. If your child is adverse to flossing, try purchasing flossers, which consist of a thin thread of floss on a stick with a handle, making it easier for them to accomplish this task.

3. Dietary Choices

While juice boxes or fruits may seem like healthier treats than sugar-loaded snacks or sodas, they can also contribute to cavities in children. Many fruits and juices are quite acidic, which can wear away at the enamel of the tooth. Make sure your child rinses their mouth with water after consuming acidic snacks.

4. Heredity

Genes also play a factor in your child’s cavity development. Adults with softer enamel can pass this trait onto their children, making it easier for plaque and decay to penetrate the tooth. Talk to your pediatric dentist about the benefits of fluoride and cavity prevention.

With friendly professionals and a welcoming environment, trust your child’s dental care needs to Pediatric Dentistry Kahala: Allen K. Hirai, DDS in Honolulu, HI. With more than 24 years of experience as a pediatric dentist, Dr. Hirai strives to provide children with safe space to have their oral health needs met, whether it’s a routine cleaning or a discussion about cavity prevention. To learn more about Pediatric Dentistry Kahala: Allen K. Hirai, DDS, visit their website or call (808) 737-0076.