Cavities are painful and unpleasant. When your child has a cavity, this can lead to urgent visits to the dentist in Bellbrook, OH. It’s best to avoid cavities if you can protect your child from this problem.

While there’s no silver bullet to prevent cavities, you can help them avoid dental decay by developing good habits at home. Below are six things you can do to help your child maintain healthy teeth and gums.

1. Provide Sugarless Snacks

Sugar is one of the main causes of dental decay. If your child eats a lot of sugar, they’re at higher risk for cavities. One way to help your child avoid this problem is by providing sugarless snacks at home. There are many foods that are healthy, filling, and yummy for kids. Peanuts, nuts, crackers with cheese, and hummus on pita are all examples of low-sugar foods that kids enjoy.

2. Keep the Soda Out Of the House

Soda is high in sugar and bad for your child’s teeth. Keep soda in the house at a minimum, or avoid buying soda at all. Encourage your child to drink water or milk.

3. Brush Their Teeth and Teach Them How

Most kids aren’t very good at brushing their teeth when they’re very young. They don’t have the dexterity in their hands or the coordination to brush their teeth effectively. You can help them maintain healthy teeth by brushing their teeth for them.

As you do it, describe how you’re doing it, and how important it is to do a good job. When they’re old enough to learn how to do it on their own, let them practice after you brush. When they’re ready, they can start brushing on their own.

4. Replace Their Toothbrush Every 3 Months

Toothbrushes only last about three months. Replace your child’s toothbrush every three months to help ensure that they’re brushing with a good tool.

5. Take Them to the Dentist Every Six Months

Kids need to see the dentist every six months, like adults. Make your child regular dental appointments to help them maintain healthy teeth and gums.

6. Consider Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a protective coating that can dramatically decrease the risk of cavities. To find out more about dental sealants in Bellbrook, OH, talk to your child’s dentist today.