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What causes cavities in children?

Cavities in children should be a concern to parents as soon as the first teeth begin to appear. Parents should continue practicing proper hygiene because toddler cavities are just as prevalent as cavities in infants. Cavity causing plaque is a sticky film containing bacteria which builds up on teeth and is fed by sugar and carbohydrates your child eats. Plaque left for too long becomes acidic and can dissolve tooth enamel, causing a cavity.

Taking care of your child’s teeth is vital to averting early tooth decay. Tooth decay in children can lead to several problems including speech problems, pain and infection, crowded adult teeth, and poor appetite. 2

What can parents do to help prevent toddler cavities?

There are a number of ways parents can go about preventing toddler cavities. Monitoring what goes into your child’s mouth is the most important. This not only includes food and drinks, but making sure that the child’s pacifier is clean as well. Limiting sweets is essential to preventing cavities in children and will help children learn not to make them a regular part of their diet. Make sure your child’s teeth are cleaned often, using gauze on the gums of infants and brushing and flossing for toddlers. Most importantly, be sure that your child goes to the dentist for regular check-ups. This means within six months of the first tooth and regularly for cleaning and examinations. 3

1 “Baby Teeth: The Basics”, www.drspock.com

2 www.agd.org/consumer/topics/baby/main.asp

3 “Cavities: An Overview”, www.drspock.com

Consult your physician or dental professional if using another fluoridated product.

Helpful Tips
for Parents

Don’t Bug Me!

Playing outside is one of the joys of summer, but your toddler isn’t the only one taking advantage of the warm weather. Bugs are on the rise this time of year, but insect repellent can help protect your child from biting insects
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Lights Out

A good night's sleep is essential to both you and your toddler. If your little one can't sleep because she's afraid of the dark or she gets disoriented and upset after waking in a dark room, a nightlight can be a simple solution. Some pediatric sleep disorder experts say a nightlight is fine if it helps calm your child or makes it easier for you to check on her. Just be sure the light is low so she won't be tempted to get up and read or play during the night.

Source: www.babycenter.com

Now Hear This!

Listening skills are vital to your child’s education, verbal communication and interpersonal relationships. He’ll start learning to listen as young as two when you practice and encourage these good habits: Get down on his level and make eye contact while talking. Don’t interrupt unless there’s a question. Divide listening and talking roles. Pay attention to what he says and respond with a nod or a comment. Ask him to repeat what you’ve talked about and compliment him for being a good listener.

Source: “Teach Your Kids Listening Skills (the Real ABC's),” by Jodie Lynn, www.family.go.com, accessed October 15, 2007.