Cavities occur when decay-causing bacteria collect in the sticky substance called plaque. When your child eats a sweet or starchy food the bacteria release an acid that can cause cavity. The longer a tooth is in contact with the acid, the greater the chance a cavity can form. That's why brushing to remove plaque needs to become an early habit.
To avoid cavities:
- Clean your child's teeth with gauze or infant toothbrush twice a day once teeth emerge. Brushing, twice a day, with a child-friendly toothpaste is a 'must'.
- Give only water before nap time or bedtime. Formula milk, juice, soda all contain carbohydrate, the nutrient bacteria thrive on.
- When your child eats sticky foods such as dried fruit, gummy bears etc. brush their teeth or at the very least give it a rinse.
- Avoid sugary snacks in favor of snacks with some protein, such as cheese, nuts or a hard-boiled egg.
- Foods that require a lot of chewing, such as peppers, cucumbers, celery, and carrots are great choices.
- Popcorn, plain crackers, and rice cakes are less likely to cause cavities than cookies, candy, or granola bars.
- It is not possible to feed your child a sugar-free diet. Sugars occur naturally in milk, bread, and fruit. It is good to reduce added sugars, but even the best of diets all children still need to brush regularly.
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