Parents understand that part of keeping their children safe and healthy involves regular trips to the dentist. But what your child does and doesn't do between those visits will have a huge effect on their oral health and any dentistry work they need. Tooth decay poses the biggest threat to a child's developing teeth, so here’s your guide to this important subject.

Tooth Decay Defined

What, exactly, is tooth decay? It is the end result of a process that starts with something as innocuous as eating. Food interacts with bacteria in the mouth, which produces acids that attack the teeth and gums. Foods that are high in sugar are especially harmful because they are stickier and adhere more readily to the teeth. Removing these damaging acids prevents them from wearing away the sensitive enamel of a child's teeth and causing decay.

Brushing & Flossing

To get rid of acids and prevent tooth decay, dentistry professionals stress brushing well after every meal, especially sugary snacks. If you're a new parent, wipe your baby's gums with a warm, clean cloth after feeding. With toddlers who are developing teeth, you will likely have to do the brushing for them; brush all teeth gently, and use a pleasant-tasting toothpaste. At around age 6, let them take over their toothbrushing duties, demonstrating how to apply light pressure and move the brush in short back and forth motions. 

Flossing can be more intimidating to a child, but it is an essential part of preventing decay. First, do it for them to show the proper technique. The thread should slide up and down the sides of each tooth. Go slow and easy, and never snap the floss in or out. Children's gums are especially sensitive, and aggressive flossing can be painful and cause bleeding, so proceed with caution.

Staying on top of brushing and flossing is the single best thing your child can do to reduce the likelihood of tooth decay. When it comes time to see the dentist, trust Legacy Dental Arts. Since 2007, they have been providing all types of dentistry services to the Eagle River, AK, area, including teeth cleaning, dental fillings, and wisdom teeth removal. To schedule an appointment with a skilled, compassionate dentistry professional, call (907) 622-7874, visit them online, or message them on Facebook.