At John M. Chaves, DDS, we all want our children to have healthy teeth and beautiful smiles. However, tooth decay is one of the most common chronic childhood dental diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly one in four children aged two to 11 has untreated cavities in their baby teeth. Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent cavities in children.
If you think your child may have a cavity, we offer treatment! Call our Woodland Hills dentist at 818-491-7294 to schedule your dental appointment. We proudly provide dental services to Woodland Hills, West Hills, Canoga Park, Winnetka, and the surrounding areas.
Cavities, also known as dental caries or tooth decay, are a common dental health issue. They’re the result of the demineralization of the tooth enamel and the subsequent breakdown of the tooth’s structure. Cavities can occur in children and adults and can affect any tooth in the mouth.
Good oral hygiene habits should start as early as infancy. Here are some tips for establishing good oral hygiene habits for your child:
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for cavity prevention in children. We recommend children visit the dentist for the first time by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth eruption. After that, children should see our dentist every six months for routine checkups and cleanings. These visits allow the dentist to detect and treat dental problems before they become more serious.
Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay by making the tooth enamel more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth. Fluoride treatments and supplements can be beneficial for children at high risk of cavities. Our dentist may recommend fluoride varnish or fluoride supplements if your child doesn’t get enough fluoride from their drinking water or other sources.
Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). These teeth have deep grooves and pits that can be hard to clean properly, making them more susceptible to decay. Dental sealants create a barrier that prevents food and bacteria from getting trapped in these grooves, reducing the risk of cavities. Our dentist may recommend dental sealants for your child’s molars and premolars as soon as they erupt.
A healthy diet is essential for good oral health. Sugary and starchy foods and drinks can increase the risk of cavities by feeding the bacteria that produce acid in the mouth. Encourage your child to eat a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products. Limit sugary and starchy foods and drinks, such as candy, soda, juice, and sweetened cereals.
To prevent cavities, limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, such as candy, soda, and fruit juice. Instead, encourage your child to eat a healthy and balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Yes, dental sealants can help prevent cavities in children. Sealants are a thin, plastic coating applied to the back teeth (molars) to protect them from decay. They’re most effective when applied soon after the molars have erupted, typically around age six.
Yes, fluoride treatments are safe for children. Fluoride is a mineral that helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Fluoride treatments can be applied at the dentist’s office or in the form of fluoride supplements, such as toothpaste or mouthwash. It’s important to follow the recommended dosage and talk to your child’s dentist if you have any concerns.
Children should visit the dentist every six months for a cleaning and exam. Regular checkups allow the dentist to detect early signs of cavities, monitor tooth development, and provide preventive care such as fluoride treatments and sealants.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing. Early visits help your child get comfortable with dental care and allow the dentist to spot potential issues early.
Dental anxiety is common among children. To ease fears, talk positively about the dentist, read children’s books about dental visits, and avoid using words like “pain” or “hurt.” At our office, we take a gentle, friendly approach to make every child feel comfortable and safe during their appointment.
Pediatric dentistry treatments are essential for maintaining your child’s oral health and setting them on the path to a lifetime of beautiful smiles. Call our Woodland Hills dentist at 818-491-7294 today to schedule your consultation with Dr. John Chaves. We proudly provide dental services to Woodland Hills, West Hills, Canoga Park, Winnetka, and the surrounding areas.
I understand the information disclosed in this form may be subject to re-disclosure and may no longer be protected by HIPAA privacy regulations and the HITECH Act.
