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Prevention

Tooth Decay Prevention Tooth decay is a progressive disease resulting from the interaction of bacteria that naturally occur on the teeth and sugars in the everyday diet. Sugar is used by the bacteria to live and grow, but they produce and release acids from these sugars that break down the mineral in teeth, forming a cavity. Dentists remove the decay and fill the tooth using a variety of fillings, restoring the tooth to a healthy state. Nerve damage can result from severe decay and may require a crown (a crown is like a large filling that can cap a tooth, making it stronger or covering it). Avoiding unnecessary decay simply requires strict adherence to a dental hygiene regimen: brushing and flossing twice a day, regular dental checkups, diet control and fluoride treatment. Practicing good hygiene avoids unhealthy teeth and costly treatment. Sealants The grooves and depressions that form the chewing surfaces of the back teeth are extremely difficult (if not impossible) to clean of bacteria and food. As the bacteria reacts with the food, acids form and break down the tooth enamel, causing cavities. Recent studies indicate that 88 percent of total cavities in American school children are caused this way. Tooth sealants protect these susceptible areas by sealing the grooves and depressions, preventing bacteria and food particles from residing in these areas. Sealant material is a resin typically applied to the back teeth, molars and premolars and areas prone to cavities. It lasts for several years but needs to be checked during regular appointments. Fluoride Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps teeth become stronger and resistant to decay. Drinking water with fluoride added or removed to an optimum level by your city water company and brushing and flossing regularly ensures significantly lower cavities. Dentists can evaluate the level of fluoride in a rural drinking water source and recommend fluoride supplements, if necessary. Thumb Sucking Sucking is a natural reflex that relaxes and comforts babies and toddlers. Children usually stop thumb sucking when the permanent front teeth are ready to erupt. Typically, children stop between the ages of 2 and 4 years. Thumb sucking that persists beyond kindergarten or first grade can cause improper growth of the mouth and misalignment of the teeth. If you notice prolonged and/or vigorous thumb sucking behavior in your older child, talk to your dentist. Here are some ways to help your child outgrow thumb sucking: Don’t scold a child when they exhibit thumb sucking behavior; instead, praise them when they don’t thumb suck. Focus on eliminating the cause of anxiety—thumb sucking is a comfort device that helps children cope with stress or discomfort. Praise them when they refrain from the habit during difficult periods. Place a bandage on the thumb or a sock on their hand at night.