The diet that we feed our children has never been such a hot topic as it is today, and getting it wrong can cause problems that go beyond childhood obesity. Decay in children’s teeth is a very real problem, but with a few simple lifestyle choices, it’s not one that it’s too difficult to overcome.
Some basic knowledge of what causes tooth decay can help to keep your child and their teeth healthy, and can help to reduce the risk of larger problems in the long run. Tooth decay in children is caused by acids produced by bacteria, so anything that helps bacteria to grow is best avoided. One of the biggest culprits in this regard is sugar. Sugar boosts bacterial growth on the teeth, leading to the release of more acid and ultimately, more tooth decay. It’s for that reason that, when it comes to the question of how to prevent decay in children’s teeth, we strongly recommend that you keep a keen eye on how much sugar your child is consuming. Sugary snacks and drinks can prove extremely detrimental to your child’s dental health.
Sugar is not only found in explicitly sweet products like fruit juice and confectionery. Simple carbohydrates like white bread and pasta quickly break down into sugars, and act upon the teeth in the same way as a sugary sweet would. Substituting in wholemeal or brown versions of these carbs can be an effective way of reducing the need for dental treatment.
Not only is the amount of sugary foods and drinks that children consume important to consider, but also the amount of time the sugar stays in the mouth. A child who uses a ‘sippy cup’ can spend a significant amount of time with sugary substances in their mouth and coating their teeth, amplifying the effect of the sugar in causing tooth decay.
Part of the dental care that we provide at Dental Excellence is to help to educate parents and children about maintaining their oral hygiene and dental health. Our Kid’s Club, ‘Plaque Patrol’ provides a fun and informative way for children to learn about how to keep their teeth healthy and strong.
To find out more about this, and the care we offer to children, go to http://excellence-in-dentistry.co.uk/treatments