2 Reasons Kids Get So Many Cavities

Kids get a lot of cavities. Some kids get way too many! Your child’s dentist in West Salem, WI can help. At Allen Dental, we help kids maintain healthy teeth and gums. If your child gets a lot of cavities, we can help you understand what contributes to cavity development. We can also provide you with information to help you help your child avoid more cavities.

1. Poor Oral Hygiene Habits

One reason that kids get so many cavities is that many kids have poor oral hygiene habits. Children often forget to brush their teeth, and even when they remember, many kids don’t brush their teeth for the recommended 2 minutes.

Most kids don’t even have the proper motor control to properly brush their own teeth until they’re about seven years old. Kids who brush their own teeth before this age are likely not doing a great job.

2. Sugar Consumption

Many kids eat a lot of sugar. Sugar feeds the bacteria that causes cavities, so the more sugar your child consumes, the more likely they are to get cavities.

What You Can Do to Protect Your Child’s Teeth

As a parent, you can help protect your child’s teeth from cavities. Start by monitoring your child’s toothbrushing habits. If your child isn’t old enough to brush their own teeth, do it for them. If they do brush their own teeth, pay attention to ensure they’re doing it twice per day, and that they’re doing a good job.

Consider getting your child an electric toothbrush to make brushing easier and more effective. If your child eats a lot of sugar, buy sugarless snacks.

Do you think your child needs a cavity filling in West Salem, WI? If so, call Allen Dental today.