Frequency of Meals and Snacks

The more frequently your child eats and snacks, the more opportunities there are for sugar to stay in their mouth, leading to an increased risk of cavities. To limit the frequency of meals and snacks, encourage your child to eat three main meals a day and limit snacking in between.

Brush, Floss, and Rinse Regularly

Brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and rinsing with mouthwash are important steps in maintaining good oral hygiene. Consistently following this routine can help prevent cavities and keep your child's teeth and gums healthy.

Watch What You Drink

Sugar-sweetened drinks such as soda, sports drinks, and juice can increase the risk of cavities. Encourage your child to drink water and limit their consumption of sugary drinks.

Avoid Sticky Foods

Sticky foods like candy, cookies, and crackers can get stuck in your child's teeth and increase the risk of cavities. Encourage your child to choose healthier, non-sticky snack options like fruits, vegetables, and cheese.

Make Treats Part of Meals

When your child does eat sugary treats, make sure it's part of a meal and not as a snack. This way, their mouth will produce more saliva, which can help wash away the sugar and prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria.

Choose Nutritious Snacks

Encourage your child to choose nutritious snacks like fruits, vegetables, and cheese. These snacks can help improve oral health and reduce the risk of cavities.

Conclusion

By following these tips, parents can help prevent cavities in their children and maintain good oral health. If you have any concerns about your child's oral health, visit our Locations page to find a dental professional near you.

Parent Information

Preventing Cavities in Children: Tips for Parents

Cavities can develop due to poor oral hygiene and a diet high in sugary foods. To prevent cavities in your child, it is important to limit their sugar intake and encourage regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing.