Decay Prevention in Children

What causes cavities in Children Dentist Highlands Ranch

How can you reduce the risks of dental decay in your children?

Fluoride binds to the enamel and reduces cavities by 70%. The current thinking is fluoride is good for everyone and the process of remineralization of the enamel surfaces is gaining popularity. At Cottonwood Dental Group our Highlands Ranch Dentists  and Denver Dentists give fluoride treatment to all of their patients regardless of age. In addition fluoridated water (containing 0.7 to 1.2 parts fluoride per million) and/or taking a prescription fluoride  reduces the risk of dental decay regardless of your age.

Fluoride may or may not be added to your municipals water supply. In Highlands Ranch, Douglas County and the surrounding areas the water supply does have fluoride.  If not (you live on a ranch etc.) then the  following guidelines can be used.

• 0.25 mg per day for children up to 3 years old
• 0.5 mg per day for children 3 to 6 years old
• 1.0 mg for children over age 6.
• Bottled water is wonderful and convenient but it does not have fluoride.  We have seen and increase in the indence of decay as bottled water has become more popular.

Brushing and flossing Highlands Ranch Dentistry

The purpose of tooth brushing is to remove the white film from your tooth (plaque).  Bacteria in plaque change sugars to acids demineralized your child's tooth (causes decay).  On small children even a washcloth can help.

Try to brush after each meal.  If your child can't brush their teeth... teach them to rinse their  mouth with water as a way to reduce the sugars and the bacterial count.

A fluoride toothpaste is beneficial at all ages starting at 1 year but should only be a "pea sized on the tooth brush.

Diet. 

The Darth Vader in dentistry is sugar.  Sugars come from all forms and reducing the frequency of sugar exposures is the key.  Sticky sugars (candy) is like napalm on your child's tooth.  Fruit roll-up's sound healthy... but they stick to your child's tooth and can cause rampant decay.

Baby bottle decay.  You should never let your infant sleep with a bottle of milk or juice. This can sit on your child tooth and can cause rampant decay.

Dentist visits

Our Highlands Ranch Dental office recommends that you bring your child to your dental visit and gradually introduce them to our Highlands Ranch dentists.  Any dark spots on your child's teeth should be brought to the attention of the Dr's DeLapp.

Our Highlands Ranch dentist, Dr. James DeLapp and Dr. H. Candace DeLapp provide general dental services to patients living in Denver Douglas County, Parker, Lone Tree and Castle Pines.  Please feel free to contact their office at (303) 694-9740 for an appointment today.