Now that October has arrived, Halloween is around the corner. While we love this spooky holiday as much as everyone else, we want to make sure you and your kids avoid cavities! In today’s blog, your Seattle, WA, dentist talks about the steps we take to help protect kids and adults alike from exposure to tooth decay.
How Candy Leads to Cavities
When kids suddenly consume more candy than usual, particularly if it is the kind that clings to the teeth, this leaves behind particles of sugar that harmful oral bacteria will break down. When this happens, this coats the teeth in a sticky layer of plaque, which hardens with time into tartar. The buildup will then weaken and erode enamel to expose the sensitive inner structures to bacteria, causing cavities to form. Treatment is then needed to avoid infection or even premature loss of baby teeth! You can help safeguard your child’s smile by limiting candy consumption each day, or even offering them the chance to trade in excess candy to you for a small amount of cash or a fun toy or field trip somewhere. This way, they enjoy their trick or treat adventure, but don’t put their smile at risk.
If you happen to be handing out treats this year, consider candy-free portions like spooky stickers, Halloween-related temporary tattoos, or even party favors like plastic spider rings or skeletons.
Protecting Kids with Routine Home Care
Making sure your kids care for their smiles from home is also very helpful! Children should brush their teeth with a fluoride toothpaste when they wake up and then again before going to bed. Before they brush that second time, make sure they floss in between each tooth to remove the bits of sugar that may be beyond the reach of a toothbrush. To make sure they brush for the whole two minutes, you can monitor your kids or time them with a song, video, or even a sand timer.
Continuing Care at Our Office
You can also schedule your child’s checkup and cleaning visit too! With a checkup, our team watches for the earliest signs of tooth decay. We then offer fillings to treat them in one visit. With a cleaning, we can remove all plaque and tartar to help lower the risk of cavities. Our team may also discuss unique preventive treatments for kids, such as fluoride varnish to strengthen the smile, or dental sealants to coat the rear teeth and lower the risk of cavities in the hard-to-reach parts of your little one’s smile.
Schedule Your Child’s Next Visit with Our Team Today
Our team wants to help kids and their families avoid the onset of tooth decay. Schedule a consultation with Hygge Laser Dentistry in Seattle, WA at (206)789-2555 to learn more about avoiding the onset of cavities.
