Regular exams and cleanings are very important for the oral health of your child. If a cavity is found when it is small, the tooth can be restored with a filling. These dental restorations are a great solution for smaller cavities, fractures, and wear. At Epic Dentistry for Kids, we use durable white filling material that lasts a long time and looks great. For some cavities and broken teeth, a better choice is a crown. There are white zirconia crowns and silver stainless steel crowns. White crowns are relatively new to pediatric dentistry, whereas silver crowns have been the standard crown for pediatric teeth for decades. The silver crowns contain no mercury. Please talk with your dentist about which one is the best option for your child.
How can we avoid needing fillings in the future?
Prevention is very important for your child’s oral health. There are four steps to a child’s oral health prevention. First, establish a dental home with a pediatric dentist and visit regularly. Second, brush (with a small smear of toothpaste) and floss after breakfast and before bedtime every day. Remember not to wash toothpaste off the teeth after brushing. Third, brush your child’s tongue as part of their brushing routine. Finally, limit carbohydrates/sugars to mealtimes and keep them away from bedtimes.
Is there a way to prevent decay aside from brushing and flossing?
In addition to proper oral health care, there are some things that can be done to prevent cavities. Cavities are caused by the acids produced when we eat sugars and carbohydrates. A healthy diet low in refined carbohydrates, such as sugars and other junk foods, helps in keeping cavities away. It is important to recognize that any acidic foods will cause enamel erosion and possibly cavities. These are foods such as lemons, sugar-free drinks, and other sour foods. Also, sealants are a protective coating that can be applied to certain teeth to reduce cavity risk.
Does fluoride help prevent cavities?
Extensive studies have shown that fluoride is both safe and effective at reducing cavity risk. It is found in most toothpastes and many mouthwashes. For children under age three, you can use a non-fluoride toothpaste or only use the size of a grain of rice of fluoride toothpaste when brushing. After brushing, we should all spit out the excess toothpaste. However, it is important not to rinse the toothpaste off. Let it stay on and “soak in” like tooth lotion. It is also recommended to have fluoride applied to teeth professionally at least twice per year.
