How to prevent cavities in your kids|| Dr. Navya talks || Al Afdal Medical Center

What is tooth decay in children?
Tooth decay is the breakdown or destruction of tooth enamel, the hard outer surface of a tooth. Tooth decay can lead to cavities, also called dental caries. These are holes in the teeth. Cavities can get bigger with time if left untreated. A cavity can reach deep within a tooth, where the nerve endings are, leading to pain and sensitivity.
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What causes tooth decay in a child?
Tooth decay is caused by bacteria and other things. It can happen when foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches) are left on the teeth. Such foods include milk, soda, raisins, candy, cake, fruit juices, cereals, and bread. Bacteria that normally live in the mouth change these foods, making acids. The combination of bacteria, food, acid, and saliva form a substance called plaque that sticks to the teeth. Over time, the acids made by the bacteria eat away at the tooth enamel, causing cavities.
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Which children are at risk for tooth decay?
All children have bacteria in their mouth. So all children are at risk for tooth decay. But the following may raise your child’s risk for it:
*High levels of the bacteria that cause cavities
*A diet high in sugars and starches
*Water supply that has limited or no fluoride in it
*Poor oral hygiene
*Less saliva flow than normal
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What are the symptoms of tooth decay in a child?
Tooth decay may be a bit different for each child. Here is a common way that teeth develop decay and cavities:
White spots begin to form on the teeth in areas affected. These spots mean that the enamel is starting to break down. They may lead to early sensitivity in the teeth.
*An early cavity is seen on the tooth. It has a light brown color.
*The cavity becomes deeper. It turns a darker shade of brown to black.
The symptoms of tooth decay and cavities vary from child to child. Cavities don’t always cause symptoms. Sometimes children don’t know they have a cavity until their dentist finds it. But your child may feel:
*Pain in the area around the tooth
*Sensitivity to certain foods, such as sweets and hot or cold drinks
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