Tooth Decay Prevention / Sealants / Fluoride / Thumb Sucking
Tooth Decay Prevention
Tooth decay is a progressive disease resulting in the interaction of
bacteria that naturally occur on the teeth and sugars in the
everyday diet. Sugar causes a reaction in the bacteria, causing it
to produce acids that break down the mineral in teeth, forming a
cavity. Dentists remove the decay and fill the tooth using a variety
of fillings, restoring the tooth to a healthy state. Nerve damage
can result from severe decay and may require a crown (a crown is
like a large filling that can cap a tooth, making it stronger or
covering it). Avoiding unnecessary decay simply requires strict
adherence to a dental hygiene regimen: brushing and flossing twice a
day, regular dental checkups, diet control and fluoride treatment.
Practicing good hygiene avoids unhealthy teeth and costly treatment.
Sealants
The grooves and depressions that form the chewing surfaces of the
back teeth are extremely difficult (if not impossible) to clean of
bacteria and food. As the bacteria reacts with the food, acids form
and break down the tooth enamel, causing cavities. Recent studies
indicate that 88 percent of total cavities in American school
children are caused this way.
Tooth sealants protect these susceptible areas by sealing the grooves and depressions, preventing bacteria and food particles from residing in these areas. Sealant material is a resin typically applied to the back teeth, molars and premolars and areas prone to cavities. It lasts for several years but needs to be checked during regular appointments.
Fluoride
Fluoride is a substance that helps teeth become stronger and
resistant to decay. Regularly drinking water treated with fluoride
and brushing and flossing regularly ensures significantly lower
cavities. Dentists can evaluate the level of fluoride in a primary
drinking water source and recommend fluoride supplements (usually in
tablets or drops), if necessary.
Thumb Sucking
Sucking is a natural reflex that relaxes and comforts babies and
toddlers. Children usually cease thumb sucking when the permanent
front teeth are ready to erupt. Typically, children stop between the
ages of 2 and 4 years. Thumb sucking that persists beyond the
eruption of primary teeth can cause improper growth of the mouth and
misalignment of the teeth. If you notice prolonged and/or vigorous
thumb sucking behavior in your child, talk to your dentist.
Here are some ways to help your child outgrow thumb sucking:
• Don’t scold a child when they exhibit thumb sucking behavior;
instead, praise them when they don’t thumb suck.
• Focus on eliminating the cause of anxiety—thumb sucking is a
comfort device that helps children cope with stress or discomfort.
• Praise them when they refrain from the habit during difficult
periods.
• Place a bandage on the thumb or a sock on their hand at night.
