Tooth cavity in children is a most common dental problem now a days. Cavity develops when a tooth decays and breaks down or a hole is developed.
Causes for Tooth Cavity in Children
- DietDiet high in sugar and starches and low in fibers is one of the major causes for tooth cavity in children. These foods include chocolates, chips, sweetened pacifiers, processed juices and milkshakes, carbonated drinks etc. The sugars and bacteria create an acidic environment in mouth that breaks down enamel leading to tooth decay.
- Less water intakewater acts as a natural cleanser for body as well as mouth. So less intake of water leaves the food particles stuck on tooth surfaces theat later on decompose to cause tooth decay.
- Poor Oral HygieneKids are fussy to maintain their oral hygiene. Failure to maintain proper oral hygiene that is proper brushing and regular mouthwashing leads to tooth decay and tooth cavity. Parents should inculcate the habit of regular toothbrushing to younger ones ever since the first tooth erupts in mouth.
- Long term bottle feeding and mouth breathingBottle feeding especially during night is the major cause of early childhood caries that goes unnoticed in most of the cases. Moreover mouth breathing habit reduces saliva flow in mouth and leads to tooth decay.
- Low flouride content in waterLow flouride in local water supply is also responsible for tooth cavities.
Prevention of Tooth Cavity in Children
- Develop regular oral hygiene maintenance habit. Teach children proper toothbrushing and mouth rinsing starting at early age
- Give fiber rich healthy food to children and take good care not to build habit of unhealthy snacking
- Discontinue habits like bottle feeding and mouth breathing. Seek advice from Dentist if required.
- Keep your kids well hydrated.
- Avoid processed and sugary food
Treatment of Tooth Cavity in Children
- Early stage tooth decay can be taken care with use of flouridated toothpastes under prescription of dentist.
- In case of pitting tooth decay fillings are helpful Different types of filling materials are available in market that can be used by the concerned dentist according to the requirement.
- Advanced cases of tooth decay may require root canal treatment.
