The natural bacteria in your child’s mouth is just waiting to combine with sugar and form the glue-like substance known as plaque. The plaque that is not washed away by saliva, or with brushing, produces the acid that eats away at the enamel of the teeth and contributes to the development of cavities.
The obvious solution is to cut down on your child’s sugar intake, but what is the best way to do that? Pediatric dentists will tell you that is more important to eat sugary food less often than to reduce the sugar content of one meal and that since germs and bacteria work so well together, get rid of as many germs as you can by making sure your child brushes, and flosses at least twice a day. Avoid letting your child eat candy that will stick to his teeth, and that has no nutritional value whatsoever. Instead, substitute a juicy, sweet-tasting apple, for instance.
Stay away from “junk food” as much as possible, and be aware that the sponsors of a lot of the T.V. shows that your children watch promote products like sugar-coated cereals and other sweet treats. The grocery store is another source of temptation, try to steer clear of the candy aisle when your children are shopping with you.
Be sure to take advantage of all fluoride sources. Fluoride is the most valuable cavity-fighting weapon that pediatric dentistry has at their disposal. Children under 12 should drink at least two cups of fluoridated water per day. If you don’t have access to a fluoridated water supply, your pediatric dentist can prescribe it in tablet form.
When you are looking for a pediatric dentist in the Aurora, CO area, be sure to visit Epic Dentistry for Kids. Dr. Patterson will take your children through the first visit, step by step, so they will know just what to expect. Once they realize that there is nothing to be afraid of, they may actually look forward to their appointment – especially the part with the treasure chest hunt!
