Your children's teeth are important to their health and comfort. When they have cavities, they may experience pain and have difficulty eating. To prevent them from developing cavities that require fillings, follow these tips.

How to Help Kids Steer Clear of Cavities 

1. Reduce Their Sugar Intake

The human mouth is home to bacteria that feed on the sugar we eat. The more sugar in their environment, the more they multiply, producing acids that erode dental enamel. This is the root cause of cavities, so reducing sugar minimizes your child’s cavity risk. Instead, offer little ones healthy snacks like apples and celery.

2. Choose the Right Dental Products

To fight the effects of tooth erosion due to bacteria, kids need a quality fluoride toothpaste to replenish the minerals in their enamel. Both adult and children toothpaste products have about the same amount of fluoride, but kids toothpaste brands offer flavors and colors that are attractive to this demographic. Because of this, your child will be more excited to brush. Also, make sure to choose a soft-bristled toothbrush that is easy to grip.

3. Supervise Them

Until your child is about six years old, they'll need you to brush their teeth for them. As they get older, let them do it on their own—but don't stop supervising their efforts. Make sure they're brushing all tooth surfaces, using enough toothpaste, and spending enough time brushing.

4. Establish a Routine

Good brushing techniques can only protect your child's teeth if they’re enlisted regularly, every day. To help your kids form this positive habit, set aside specific times in the morning and evening for brushing, and incorporate it into your routines for waking up and going to bed. It’s also important for them to see you’re committed to a similar oral hygiene regimen, as kids love to mirror their parents’ habits. 

5. Visit the Dentist

From the time their first teeth come in, kids should see the dentist regularly—once every six months. Not only can the dentist offer fillings for present cavities to stop them from growing, but they can also detect dental problems when they're still easy to treat. 

To help your child learn to care for their teeth or to schedule fillings as needed, contact Dr. Robert N. Petrtyl, DDS. Based in Cincinnati, OH, Dr. Petrtyl serves Hamilton County and beyond. He has 30 years of experience, so you can trust him to provide the highest quality care using the latest techniques. To schedule a visit for fillings, call (513) 554-4657 or get in touch online.