By the age of 60, over 90% of adults have been affected by tooth decay in at least one permanent tooth, while cavities remain the number one chronic disease among school-aged children. Its prevalence is unfortunate, considering that with adequate oral hygiene and proper care, tooth decay is largely preventable. To help reduce cavity statistics, Ankeny family dentist Dr. Amanda Foust explains the habits that can increase your child’s risk of developing cavities.
Constant Snacking
Even in a healthy mouth, there are about 600 different kinds of oral bacteria milling about, equaling approximately 10-15 billion individual germs. Some of these germs are harmless, but some of them can prove a serious danger to your oral health. For instance, the bacterial strain Streptococcus mutans, which contributes to dental plaque formation, consumes sugars and carbs and turns them into acid. The acid saps your teeth of essential minerals and weakens your tooth enamel (the protective outer layer of your tooth) to pave the way for tooth decay. If you allow your child to snack frequently throughout the day, your child’s teeth will be under constant attack from acid as S. mutans also continuously feed, increasing his/her chances of developing cavities.
Inadequate Dental Hygiene
Even if you painstakingly instill the tenets of good oral hygiene in your children, they still may not diligently follow the suggested routine. Brushing and flossing teeth can seem uninteresting in light of the many other wonders that a child’s life offers, and if you do not ensure that they adhere to their hygiene routines, they may simply forego it altogether. Ensure that your child brushes his/her teeth at least twice a day and flosses at least once, preferably before bedtime, to reduce their risk of tooth decay.
Call Us Today
Aside from proper eating habits and strong hygiene, your child’s oral health must be maintained regularly with professional care, as does yours. To learn more about excellent dental care for you and your family, call Dental Impressions today at (515) 965-0230 to schedule an appointment with your Ankeny family dentist. Located in the 50021 area, we proudly serve patients from Ankeny, Polk City, Bondurant, Elkhart, Alleman, and all surrounding communities.
