When we are born, we begin our adventure. Many different varieties of bacteria infiltrate the human body. It becomes a normal component of it which we refer to as “normal flora.” When the usual bacterial balance is disrupted, circumstances alter. Allowing a disease process to begin. This is especially true in the case of dental caries.
- mutans is found in our mouths and is innocuous until there is a disruption in the environment. When this happens, they multiply fast. The developing colony has an astonishing capacity. To adhere to the outer tooth surfaces, creating plaque.
Plaque is a sticky coating that contains bacteria as well as other salivary components. Plaque attracts S.mutans and other types of bacteria. It is sticky and provides an ideal habitat for growth.
The acid is produced by bacteria. Dissolves the calcium and other minerals in the tooth enamel or the outer layer of the tooth. In a process known as “Decalcification.” As the calcium in the enamel is dissolved. The tooth enamel weakens, and worsen the affected spot will become a cavity. So, where did things go wrong? What caused these microorganisms to proliferate?
Sweets Aren’t the Only Risky Foods for Your Child’s Teeth
Did you know that sugar does not cause tooth decay in children? It is, instead, an infectious and contagious bacterial illness. Certain bad bacteria in our mouths generate acid. Destroys our teeth and leads to cavities. Sugar is linked to tooth decay because these destructive bacteria thrive on sweets. When we eat sugary meals (or foods that break down into sugars in our mouths) these bacteria feast on them. Utilizing them to grow, reproduce, and metabolize into a toxic acidic waste product.
Plaque can be passed on to youngsters via saliva. These germs are passed to children by their mothers. Although the bacteria can be transmitted by anybody, even other children. The more frequent child’s mouth comes into touch with cavity-causing bacteria-containing saliva. The more probable dangerous germs will colonize the child’s mouth. Furthermore, if cavity-causing bacteria infiltrate a youngster’s mouth. The child is more likely to get cavities.
You may help reduce the odds that cavity-causing germs will be passed to your kid. By limiting your child’s contact with the saliva of others. Particularly the saliva of persons who may have untreated cavities.
Any meal containing fermentable carbs. Carbohydrates are converted into sugars within your child’s mouth to feed cavity-causing bacteria. This implies that not only are sugary meals dangerous for your kids’ teeth. Starchy foods like chips, white crackers, and white bread.
We recommend that you limit your child’s juice consumption to mealtimes. When a kid is permitted to transport juice or other sugary liquids in a bottle or sippy cup. It might be enticing for the youngster to sip on the liquid throughout the day. Resulting in repeated harmful acid assaults and an increased risk of cavities.
What Kinds of Dental Issues Can Usually happen?
If you have a history of dental decay or gum disease, your children may be at a higher risk as well. Even the finest brushing and flossing routines can’t always keep a cavity at bay. If your child complains of a toothache, this might be a sign of a cavity that needs to be filled.
Pediatric dentists now have more filling and repair choices. A silver-colored material is called amalgam. Before the preferred material for most permanent tooth fillings. Yet, alternative materials, such as composite resins, are gaining popularity. Resins attach to the teeth, preventing the filling from falling out. They can also be used to restore teeth injured by accident or disorders such as cleft palate. Because resins are generally tooth-colored, they are thought to be more appealing.
Poor dental hygiene practices in youngsters. As one might think, increase the chance of getting cavities. What you may not have understood is that it is critical to start brushing your baby’s teeth twice a day. As soon as his or her first tooth appears, and start flossing as soon as your child has two teeth that touch.
Our teeth’ natural protection is saliva. It aids in the removal of food particles and the healing of damage. Making it predictable that they are more likely to get cavities.
A dentist will suggest general anesthesia in some rare cases. Generally when a more involved dental treatment is to be performed. Before agreeing to the operation, parents should ensure the physician administering the medication. A skilled anesthesiologist or oral surgeon. Don’t be scared to ask your dentist any questions you may have.
Cavity Prevention and Treatment for Kids
Cavities form when bacteria and food are left on the teeth after eating. They are not removed with a toothbrush. Acid gathers on a tooth, weakening its enamel and forming a hole — or cavity.
Here’s how to avoid cavities:
l Begin developing proper oral hygiene practices at a young age. Teach your children to wash their teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and to floss.
l Take in enough fluoride. Fluoride usage regularly toughens the enamel, making it more difficult for acid to enter. Although many municipalities mandate fluoridation of tap water, others do not. Ask your dentist for fluoride supplements if your water source is not fluoridated. Although most toothpaste includes fluoride. Toothpaste alone will not protect a child’s teeth completely. Yet, be cautious since too much fluoride might cause tooth discoloration. Before using supplements, consult with your dentist.
l Some foods should be limited or avoided. Sugary meals and drinks, as well as confectionery, can erode enamel. If your children consume these meals, have them rinse their mouths. Brush their teeth afterward to remove the sugar. The same is true for children who take sweetened liquid medications. Always have them rinse or wash their teeth afterward.
As your kid’s permanent teeth emerge. The dentist can assist prevent decay by placing a thin wash of resin (called a sealant) on the rear teeth. This protective layer prevents germs from accumulating in the molars’ difficult-to-reach fissures. Make it clear to children, that sealants are not a substitute for thorough brushing.
TAKE AWAY
Regular checkups and proper tooth care assist to avoid significant dental work. Encourage your children to use a mouthguard when participating in sports. This can help them avoid catastrophic oral injuries.