Tooth decay is one of the most common childhood health problems, and it is largely preventable. A few consistent habits at home, combined with regular check-ups, make a real difference.
Brushing the right way
- Brush twice a day, especially before bed.
- Under three: a rice-grain smear of fluoride toothpaste. Three to six: a pea-sized amount.
- Help with brushing until about age seven or eight. Most young children can’t yet clean every surface properly.
- Encourage spitting out the toothpaste rather than rinsing, so the fluoride keeps working.
Watch the snacking
Decay depends less on how much sugar a child eats and more on how often. Every sugary snack or drink starts an acid attack that lasts around half an hour. Keep sweets and juice to mealtimes, and offer water, cheese, fruit and vegetables between meals.
Fissure sealants
The chewing surfaces of back teeth have deep grooves that trap food and are hard to clean. A fissure sealant is a thin protective coating painted into these grooves. It is quick, painless and needs no drilling. Sealants are often placed on adult molars soon after they come through, around ages six and twelve.
Fluoride treatments
Professional fluoride applied at the dentist strengthens enamel and can help reverse very early decay. Your dentist will advise whether your child would benefit, based on their risk of decay.
Regular check-ups
Six-monthly visits allow early decay to be spotted before it causes pain. Small cavities can be treated simply, while larger ones may need more involved treatment. Book your child’s check-up with Dr H.B Mohamed in Lenasia on 011 852 7866.