Don’t Be Afraid of Great Dental Care
With Halloween right around the corner, parents are most likely getting nervous about the impending cavities that are sure to ensue. Dental Associates of Connecticut wants to make sure that parents do not have to worry! Read the following steps to prevent any cavities or tooth decay this holiday.
Brush with fluoride toothpaste after eating and drinking.
Believe it or not, there are many toothpastes without fluoride in them. While this may help with sensitive teeth, it isn’t good to only use those. Fluoride prevents tooth decay and helps teeth become more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugar in the mouth. You should be brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing between your teeth. If you can’t brush your teeth after a meal, rinse your mouth with water.
Rinse your mouth with fluoride.
Fluoride rinses are also beneficial, for ages 6 and up, because it removes as much sugar and sticky residue as possible. Your child is sure to have both of those in their mouth after eating some of their Halloween candy.
Visit your dentist regularly.
Regular visits are a must for your oral health. Recommended 2 times yearly.
While at the dentist, consider getting a fluoride treatment.
These are usually offered at the end of a cleaning and are extremely beneficial. Fluoride treatments are especially important if you don’t get enough of it at home from your water, toothpaste or mouthwash.
Drink your tap water.
Public water almost always has fluoride infused in it, so you should be drinking from the faucet once-in-awhile. Drinking strictly from water bottles is not healthy for you or your children.
Avoid constant snacking.
Bacteria from food creates acids that destroy tooth enamel; the more snacking you do the more the acids attack your teeth.
If you still want to snack, consider “tooth friendly” foods.
There are many foods that will still be good to your teeth. Fresh fruits and vegetables create more saliva in your mouth, while unsweetened coffee and tea remove sugar coating your teeth. If your child doesn’t want to give up candy quite yet, give them sugar-free gum! The gum creates a buildup of saliva as well as destroys the sugar coating their teeth, while still tasting yummy!
Following these quick steps before and after Halloween will definitely protect your child’s teeth from cavities or tooth decay. If you have any further questions, visit one of our convenient offices.