Why Does My Child Keep Getting Cavities?

Cavities are painful for kids. Cavities also require a visit to the dentist in Brandon, FL which can lead to time out of work and school. It’s important for your child’s health and wellness to prevent cavities if at all possible. If your child has gotten multiple cavities in recent years, there may be things you could do to stop this problem from recurring. At Anderson Dental, we work with parents and children to help them maintain healthy teeth and gums.

What Causes Cavities?

Cavities can be caused by many things, but the most common reason that children get cavities is a combination of a sugary diet and poor oral hygiene habits.

Kids have a hard time brushing their teeth as well as adults, and those kids who brush their teeth on their own often don’t brush long enough or well enough to take care of their teeth.

How Can Cavities Be Prevented?

There are many things you can do to help your child avoid cavities:

  • Take your child to the dentist as often as recommended by the dental professional, whether that’s every six months or once per year.
  • Limit your child’s sugar consumption. Keep sugar-free snacks on hand and encourage your child to drink water instead of soda.
  • Brush your child’s teeth until they’re old enough to brush their teeth on their own. Some kids need help brushing their teeth until they’re 8 years old.
  • Monitor your child’s toothbrushing habits to ensure they’re brushing their teeth twice per day for two minutes each time.
  • Replace your child’s toothbrush every three months to ensure they’re using a toothbrush that’s appropriate for their teeth.
  • Buy child-sized toothbrushes until your child is old enough for an adult toothbrush.

What to Do If Your Child Has Cavities

If you suspect your child has cavities, take them to the dentist as soon as possible. Delaying a visit to the dentist could lead a cavity to turn into a dental infection.

Contact Us for Cavity Fillings Today

At Anderson Dental, we provide amalgam and composite cavity fillings in Brandon, FL. We want to help your child maintain healthy teeth and gums. To make an appointment for a filling or a checkup, contact us today.