Cavities, also called tooth decay, are very common in kids. They are holes in the teeth that can cause pain and problems with eating or talking. The good news is that cavities can be prevented! In this blog, we will explain in simple words what causes cavities in children and how to stop them.
What Are Cavities?
A cavity starts when the hard outside of a tooth (called enamel) gets damaged. It begins as a small white spot, then turns brown, and finally becomes a hole. If not fixed, it can hurt a lot.
Main Causes of Cavities in Kids
Cavities happen because of tiny germs (bacteria) that live in everyone’s mouth. These germs love sugar!
- Sugar from Food and Drinks: When kids eat or drink sugary things like candy, cookies, juice, soda, or even milk, the bacteria eat the sugar too. They make acid as a waste product.
- Acid Attacks the Teeth: This acid slowly eats away at the tooth enamel, making weak spots and then holes.
- Plaque Builds Up: The bacteria, sugar, acid, and saliva mix to form a sticky layer called plaque on the teeth. If plaque stays on the teeth, the acid keeps attacking.
Other things that make cavities more likely in children:
- Not brushing teeth well or often enough.
- Going to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, or juice (this is called “bottle rot”).
- Eating sugary snacks many times a day.
- Sharing spoons or cleaning pacifiers with your mouth (this passes bacteria to the baby).
All kids have bacteria in their mouths, so everyone can get cavities. But bad habits make it worse.
How to Prevent Cavities in Children
You can help your child have strong, healthy teeth!
- Brush Twice a Day: Start brushing as soon as the first tooth comes in. Use a tiny bit of fluoride toothpaste (like a grain of rice for babies).
- Floss Once a Day: When teeth touch each other, floss to clean between them.
- Eat Healthy Foods: Give more fruits, vegetables, cheese, and water. Limit candy, soda, and sticky snacks.
- See the Dentist Regularly: Take your child to the dentist starting at age 1 or when the first tooth appears. The dentist can check for problems and put sealants on teeth to protect them.
- Avoid Bedtime Bottles with Sugar: Only water in bottles at night or nap time.
By doing these simple things, you can keep your child’s smile bright and cavity-free. Healthy teeth help kids eat, speak, and feel good!
If you think your child has a cavity (like brown spots or pain), see a dentist right away. Early help is best!