How to Prevent Dental Caries in Your Child

Dental caries is a chronic infectious disease of the teeth. If left untreated during the early stages, the condition may worsen, requiring more extensive treatment in the future, resulting in pain and potentially life-threatening complications.

At Bangkok International Dental Center, our team of pediatric dentists is committed to providing professional preventive and therapeutic dental care for children.

The following recommendations may help prevent dental caries in children.

- Maintain maternal oral health from the beginning of pregnancy by visiting a dentist for regular oral examinations and treatment as needed

- Regardless of the feeding method, whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, parents should ensure that their child receives adequate fluoride exposure.

From birth to 12 months of age, gently clean the infant's oral cavity using a soft, moist cloth. When the first tooth erupts, use a soft-bristled infant toothbrush with a smear of fluoride toothpaste formulated for infants.

From 12 months to 36 months of age, brush the child's teeth at least twice daily using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. The most appropriate times for toothbrushing are after breakfast and before bedtime

- Avoid putting the child to bed with a bottle or allowing prolonged bottle-feeding, as this may expose the teeth to sugars for extended periods and increase the risk of dental caries and swallowing difficulties.

- Do not share utensils or pre-chew food before feeding the child. Avoid cleaning pacifiers with your mouth, as these practices may facilitate the transmission of cariogenic bacteria.

- Begin introducing drinking from a cup at approximately 12–15 months of age. This practice promotes oral motor development and reduces prolonged bottle use.

- Limit the consumption of sugary foods and sticky snacks, including candy, cookies, cakes, sweetened beverages, and fruit juices. If consumed, these foods should be offered only at mealtimes, followed by oral cleaning after eating.

- Avoid allowing children to fall asleep while breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for infants younger than six months. Between six and twelve months of age, breastfeeding should be limited to no more than four sessions during the night, with water offered after each feeding. For children aged one to six years, milk intake should not exceed four servings per day.

- Schedule the child's first dental examination by one year of age. Pediatric dentists can assess the child's oral health, apply fluoride varnish, and provide preventive guidance. Regular dental visits enable early detection of oral diseases and ensure appropriate management, thereby promoting lifelong oral health.

 

 

Reference :

Dentalworldchiangmai How to Prevent Dental Caries in Your Child

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