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Tooth decay is the most common oral health condition seen in children. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 5 children aged between 5 and 11 have at least one decayed or untreated tooth. 

What the statistics don’t show, however, is that babies and toddlers also suffer from tooth decay. Read on to find out all about tooth decay in baby teeth and what you can do to prevent it. 

How Does Tooth Decay Appear in Baby Teeth?

According to the American Dental Association, tooth decay in babies or toddlers is called childhood caries and occurs when baby teeth come into contact with sugary drinks and foods over longer periods or regularly. 

Childhood caries can cause pain and even infections that can spread if proper treatment isn’t administered. In some cases, tooth decay can also harm their overall health. 

One example of this is a baby with a constant toothache that prevents them from eating as they should. This, in turn, leads to the baby not receiving proper nutrition and important vitamins and minerals required for their healthy development.

What Can You Do as a Parent?

As a parent, you can set the right tone for their future by caring for your baby’s teeth as soon as they start to appear. Here are a few pointers to help you along:

• Start brushing your baby’s teeth twice a day as soon as they start to appear. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and just a grain-sized drop of fluoride toothpaste if they are below three years old. For kids between 3 to 6 years, you can use slightly more fluoride toothpaste.
• Brush your child’s teeth until they are at least six years of age. If they take an active interest in the activity, watch over them and correct the form if necessary. Also teach them to spit the toothpaste, and not swallow it.
• Use a washcloth or gauze to wipe the gums of infants to remove any remaining food particles before putting them to bed. 
• Take your little ones to the dentist regularly to prevent any serious dental issues from developing. You can take them as soon as their teeth appear. 

Tooth decay in baby teeth is a legitimate concern as it can impact their overall health and prevent their healthy development. To learn all about how you can prevent dental issues in babies, schedule a consultation with Modesto Kidz Dental by calling (209) 5783131, booking an appointment online, or visiting us at Bldg B, 2801 Coffee Rd, Modesto, California 95355. Our dentists are committed to providing exceptional care for your child.