Why Does My Child Keep Getting Cavities?

It may sound surprising, but cavities are one of the most common dental problems among children and teenagers. 
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The tricky part is that good oral hygiene alone, while extremely important, is not enough to prevent your child from getting cavities. Other factors can influence their oral health too and you must be aware of them so that you learn how to manage them. 
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So, if your child keeps getting cavities despite brushing their teeth, keep reading to find out why. 
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What Causes Cavities?

Cavities are tiny holes in the surface of the tooth, which allow bacteria to enter deep into the inner layers and cause extensive damage. They can be caused by different factors, such as:

• Plaque formed by bacteria stuck on the teeth and gums
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• Enamel strength; some children have weaker enamel than others, which makes them more sensitive to decay and cavities 
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• Tooth anatomy can also influence the likelihood of developing cavities. If your child's teeth have deeper groves, for example, then more bacteria can accumulate there, leading to decay if not cleaned properly. 
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• Saliva plays an important role in keeping the mouth clean too. If your child has a dry mouth because of sleep apnea, for example, then there might not be enough saliva to wash away food particles and bacteria. 
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• Certain foods and drinks are more likely to cause cavities. Make sure to limit sugary or starchy foods and drinks. 
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• If the child has overcrowded teeth, it is easier for cavities to develop as it becomes harder to clean the teeth and remove food particles and debris 
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• Worn-out dental fillings 
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Ways to Prevent Cavities 

Prevention is key in reducing the risks of developing cavities. Some of the most effective preventive methods (in both children and adults) include:
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Good Oral Hygiene

Establishing a daily oral hygiene routine since the first tooth emerges is crucial for your little one's oral health. Make sure to brush your child's teeth two times a day with adequate fluoride toothpaste. Teach them how to correctly brush their teeth when they are old enough. 
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Regular Dentist Visits

Dental checkups are an essential part of preventive dentistry. Regular dental visits can help you detect a cavity at the earliest stage and possibly reverse it. The dentist can also give you useful tips based on your child's unique oral health needs. 
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Diet Changes

Make sure to give your child a balanced diet that includes fresh fruits and veggies, dairy, meat, healthy fats, and good carbs. Focus especially on fruits and vegetables as they can increase saliva flow. 
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Consider Sealants 

Talk to the dentist about dental sealants if your child has a predisposition to cavities. Sealants are a coating applied on the surface of the tooth to protect it. You can use them, for example, to seal the grooves that tend to accumulate bacteria.
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Fluoride Treatments 

If your child’s teeth do not get enough fluoride, treatments that use fluoride can help strengthen the teeth.
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Have More Questions? Visit Us at Maple Grove Pediatric Dentistry! 

Do you want to help your child have great oral health? The fantastic team at Maple Grove Pediatric Dentistry can help! 

Contact us to schedule an appointment with Dr. Matt.