Posted by : Kate Scott in (Dental health)
Do You Know You Can Catch Cavities?
Tagged Under : cavities, dental, Dental health, tooth decay
There is a specific bacteria that feeds on sugar and generates acid, which infiltrates teeth, resulting in decay. This bacteria is not present at birth, but it is passed to babies from other individuals.
You have this bacteria if you have had any kind of cavity. By sharing your child’s utensils or wiping her face with a little of your saliva, you probably have given your child these cavity causing bacteria.
It’s true, that eventually all children will have these oral germs, but babies who have these bacteria are more likely to have a life-long challenge with tooth decay. If you haven’t had a cavity since your teens, then you may have a low bacteria count and are less likely to pass them on to your child. It doesn’t hurt to still take preventative measures.
You should never allow your baby to put their fingers in your mouth, and you should also avoid sharing utensils with them. For small baby clean-ups, opt for a baby wipe, as opposed to your saliva.
Dental decay is now a chronic condition that has become more widespread that asthma, childhood obesity, and diabetes, regardless of whether you have been sharing utensils or not.
Here’s a few reasons why. All that sugar in processed foods and the drinks kids love. Today we drink more bottled water, instead of fluoridated tap water. Worse than bottled water, of course, is the over consumption of soda-pop and acidic drinks. A tooth enamel nightmare.
So, how can you help your kids prevent cavities? Visit the dentist twice a year for cleanings. Your dentist can offer your child fluoride varnish to protect teeth. Limit those sugary snacks and drinks. Drinking milk or eating cheese after meals can help neutralize acids. Chewing sugar-free gum after eating will stimulate saliva protection. Most importantly, get your kids in the habit of brushing at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste (you, too!). Change toothbrushes every three or four months.
With these helpful suggestions to keep cavities at bay, both you and your child should be able to come out of their dentist’s office with a great big smile.
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