Caries (cavities) is a multifactorial disease, involving some things you can control and some things you can't. You can't control the specific strain of bacteria that live inside your child's mouth. You can't control their genetics. But you can control what you do at home - how you're taking care of your child's teeth and your child's diet.
As pediatric dentists we care less about what your child eats for meals, and more about what they're snacking on in between meals. The general concept to think about it is: Foods that wash off the teeth are better than foods that stick on teeth. So ice cream is a great desert. Yogurt, fruits, vegetables, cheese, nuts, popcorn (plain) are better snacks than chips, pretzels, crackers, cookies. Dark chocolate is great for something sweet. Sometimes even healthy diets like vegan diets can be potent at causing cavities. It's important to remember that moderation in all things can help, and finding the right balance to fit in your life is crucial. Talk with us to help personalize a plan for you.
For how you're taking care of your child's teeth: Brushing twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste and flossing every night before bed. If your child is cavity-prone and a good spitter, you can consider a mouthwash for kids that has fluoride in it for nighttime - like ACTkids. Talk with one of our pediatric dentists to figure out the right regimen for your family!
