Dental cavities (also known as tooth decay or caries) represent the most common childhood disease in the US. Left untreated, cavities cause pain and discomfort, leading to infections.

Infected teeth will also lead to other problems, such as children being unable to eat properly, speak, play, or pay attention in the classroom.

• Up to 50% of the children between the ages 6 to 8 struggle with at least one untreated dental cavity in their baby teeth
• More than 50% of adolescents between the ages of 12 and 19 had at least one dental cavity in their permanent teeth
• According to statistics in the field, kids between the ages 5 and 19 from low-income families are twice as likely to struggle with dental cavities and dental infections compared to children that come from families with higher income

Parents should always find the best children’s dentist ridgewood, and schedule regular appointments for checkups. This way, any problem can be caught early, and treatment will be faster. Dental cavities are preventable, and dentists can perform important preventative treatments to help children. For example, with fluoride varnish treatments, approximately 33% of the dental cavities in baby teeth can be prevented. Kids living in areas with fluoridated water will struggle with fewer dental caries than children consuming water that is not fluoridated.

Also, children who regularly brush their teeth with fluoride toothpaste will have fewer cavities.

Then, the best children’s dentist ridgewood can also perform sealant treatments to help prevent cavities. The dentist will apply a thin film called a dental sealant onto the molar teeth; this is how dental cavities will be stopped. By using dental sealant on the chewing surface of the back teeth, up to 80% of dental cavities are preventable. Regular dental checkups, as well as a healthy dental care routine at home, help a lot in preventing dental caries and maintaining a beautiful smile. Parents should ensure their children brush their teeth twice a day and that they visit the dentist at least once a year for a dental exam.