Month: February 2023

Children can also develop cavities in their baby teeth. The decay of baby teeth, known as caries, can lead to various problems that will last even after the baby teeth are lost. Fortunately, it is preventable. Let’s learn about the prominent cause of tooth decay in babies. 

Common Causes Of Rotten Baby Teeth

Several factors contribute to tooth decay, including bacteria. The condition may occur if foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches) remain on the teeth for a prolonged period of time. The list of such foods includes milk, soda, raisins, candy, cakes, fruit juices, cereals, and bread. Usually, bacteria in the mouth convert these foods into acids. A substance called plaque is formed by combining bacteria, food, acid, and saliva. During the course of time, the acids produced by bacteria eat away at the enamel of the teeth, resulting in cavities.

Putting a baby to bed with a bottle is another common cause of baby tooth decay. Additionally, it may occur when your child drinks anything other than water from a bottle or sippy cup. It is recommended that milk be served only with meals rather than during nap times, bedtime, or during the day.

Which Children Are At Risk For Tooth Decay?

It is common for children to have bacteria in their mouths. As a result, all children are susceptible to tooth decay. However, the following factors may increase your child’s risk of developing it:

• Bacteria that cause cavities are present in high concentrations
• Having a diet high in sugars and starches
• Limited or non-fluoride water supplies
• A lack of proper oral hygiene
• Slightly reduced saliva flow

What Are The Signs Of Tooth Decay In A Child?

There are several common ways in which teeth develop decay and cavities. However, decay may differ from child to child.

• It is common for white spots to develop on the teeth in affected areas. As a result of these spots, the enamel is beginning to deteriorate. They may result in early tooth sensitivity.
• There is an early sign of a cavity on the tooth. It is light brown in color.
• As a result, the cavity becomes more profound. Eventually, it turns a darker shade of brown to black.

There is a wide range of symptoms associated with tooth decay and cavities in children. However, it is not always the case that cavities cause symptoms. Occasionally, children are unaware that they have one until their dentist discovers it. However, your child may feel the following:

• The area around the tooth is painful.
• The tendency to be sensitive to certain foods, such as sweets and hot or cold beverages.

How Is Tooth Decay Treated In A Child?

There may be a variety of treatments available depending on your child’s symptoms, age, and general health. The severity of the condition will also influence the outcome. Most dental decay is treated by removing the decayed portion of the tooth and replacing it with a filling. The purpose of fillings is to repair damage caused by tooth decay by installing materials in the affected area. Alternatively, they may be referred to as restorations. 

There are several types of fillings available:

Direct restorations: In these cases, a single visit is required to place the filling directly into the prepared hole. Depending on the type of filling, silver, fine glass powder, acrylic acids, or resin may be used. In most cases, they are tooth-colored.

Indirect restorations: There is a need for two or more visits. Treatments include inlays, inlays, veneers, crowns, and bridges. Various materials can be used to construct these devices, including gold, base metal alloys, ceramics, or composites. In many cases, these materials can resemble the enamel of natural teeth.

Hence, whenever you notice that your child has cavities and you are not sure why it is time to speak with a pediatric dentist so that he or she can help you to protect your child’s teeth.

When you have braces, brushing your teeth is of the utmost importance. Keeping your teeth, gums, and braces clean is key to preventing permanent damage to your teeth and gums. A variety of conditions may cause damage to the teeth, such as tooth decay, puffy, bleeding gums, or permanent white marks. All of these conditions are caused by inadequate brushing or the consumption of sugary or alcoholic beverages.

As soon as your braces are fitted, you will need to brush for a longer period of time: approximately six minutes after every meal and after snacks. To effectively clean your teeth with braces, you will need to visit the dentist frequently. Cleaning your braces regularly will reduce the possibility of developing unsightly white spots around your brackets, as well as decrease the risk of cavities or gum irritation around the teeth, which could delay treatment.

Why Need Professional Cleaning Of Braces?

Dental professionals have the tools and experience necessary to remove bacteria from these sites in order to preserve oral health and prevent long-term periodontal disease. When should someone visit the dentist for dental cleaning with braces? The reasonable answer is every four to six weeks to maintain good oral health. 

While it is essential to brush and floss regularly to protect the enamel of the teeth and to keep bacteria at bay, there are areas of the mouth that toothbrushes and dental floss cannot reach. As a result of these crevices, bacteria can accumulate and harden into plaque and tartar, which can cause damage to the gum tissue and tooth structure. In cases where a lot of plaque accumulates around the braces, experts may recommend that you come in more frequently for cleaning and treatment to prevent further damage. Generally, the expense of teeth cleaning before braces is the same as it is for teeth cleaning at any time.

When To Visit A Dentist For Cleaning Your Braces?

Having braces on children and adults presents a unique situation. The purpose of braces is to straighten a person’s teeth by using wires and brackets. A straight smile not only improves confidence but also makes brushing and flossing teeth more convenient. As a result of these brackets and wires, it may be difficult to clean all surfaces of the teeth. There are certain areas where the wire can cover the enamel, and the brackets rest on top of it, making them virtually inaccessible. Consequently, orthodontists and dentists recommend that individuals undergo dental cleanings every six months.

During this appointment, the brackets and wires are thoroughly cleaned to prevent cavities from forming underneath. Furthermore, the professional is likely to tighten the wires in order to ensure that the teeth are moving in the appropriate direction. While braces are in place, a dental cleaning is necessary in order to prevent cavities.

Lastly, many parents wonder how often they should take their children to the dentist. The professional dental association recommends that parents bring their children for their first dentist cleaning when they are one year old. Hence, it is only appropriate to clean an entire mouth every six months, regardless of whether it is a single tooth. Additionally, regular dental examinations will help acclimate a child to the concept of regular dental care.

It is ultimately a matter of personal preference as to how often a patient should visit a dentist. Consult an oral health professional to determine how frequently you should visit the dentist. Although for the prevention of long-term oral health problems, it is important to perform regular deep cleanings.