No kid wants cavities. What should you and your child expect when it comes to preventing cavities, and remove the fear of visiting the dentist?
Did you know children can develop cavities as young as age 2? Did you also know that almost 4 million preschoolers are diagnosed with tooth decay? Now, you may be scratching your head in regard to these alarming statistics. There are numerous studies regarding tooth decay, cavities and kids. Whether you are a new parent or this isn’t your first rodeo with raising kids, this blog will help you understand cavities, kids, and the importance of visiting the dentist. Visiting the dentist isn’t scary!
As a parent, maintaining our children’s health is a priority. We protect them from illnesses, give kisses and hugs to heal those cuts and bruises. While it is important to promote a healthy lifestyle, we tend to be a little lax when it comes to dental hygiene. It is just as important to encourage your children to brush and floss as it is to eat their vegetables. So when you are looking around for a pediatrician, remember it is also crucial to find a trusted pediatric dentist.
Foods That Affect Cavities: Kid-Friendly Food May Not Be Teeth Friendly
You may be wondering why kids are developing cavities at such a young age these days. A majority has to do with our children’s diets. Most foods targeted for children contain higher levels of sugar and artificial sweeteners. I am sure you can think of popular cereals such as these. When it comes to foods that result in cavities, kids should avoid consuming:
- Candies.
- Cookies.
- Fruit Snacks– Even the “healthier” options are high in sugar, plus the chewy texture can pull enamel away from the tooth.
- Juice.
- Carbonated Drinks.
- Starchy Foods (Pasta, Bread, Chips, and Crackers)– This may be the most surprising, but refined carbs are composed of simple carbohydrates that break down into simple sugars. Bacteria love the sugar, which produces acid and tooth decay).
Obviously, this isn’t to say you should forbid these foods and drinks, but it is important to have them consume these items in moderation. Now that we know some of the foods to avoid, here are some foods that help fight and prevent cavities in children:
- Fruits and Veggies– Full of fiber and vitamins to help fight tooth decay.
- Dairy Products– Cheese, milk, and yogurt are full of vitamins and calcium. Try to avoid yogurts with high sugar content.
- Water With Fluoride– Water is pure without any sugar and the fluoride prevents tooth decay.
Now that you know the facts about cavities and tooth decay, it’s time to remove the fear associated with the dentist. Most children dread the dentist because they think of drills, sharp tools, and perhaps being scolded if they develop cavities. Kangaroo Smiles makes going to the dentist a fun experience. Even if your child has cavities, we ensure them it is normal and we are going to help them fight the “bad guys” to their teeth.
Kangaroo Smiles is composed of Dr. Mona and her compassionate Kangaroo Krew. You will find:
- Kid-illustrations on walls.
- Friendly, licensed, and knowledgeable staff and hygienists.
- Prizes and Contests.
- Patient Of The Month Award.
- Kid-Friendly Vocabulary.
- Great reputation within the community.
Schedule your appointment with us today. Be proactive with your child’s dental health. Call us at (978) 425-1496.