Why Does My Child Keep Getting Cavities? A Pediatric Dentist’s Perspective | Glendale CA

As a parent, you’ve probably been told to make sure your child brushes and flosses their teeth regularly to prevent cavities. But what if your child keeps getting cavities, despite your best efforts? It’s a frustrating situation, but understanding the reasons why your child may be prone to cavities can help prevent future dental problems.

Drawing on my experience as a pediatric dentist in Glendale, CA, I’ll share some insights on why your child may keep getting cavities and how to address the issue.

• • 1. Need Better Brushing Habits Brushing twice a day is a cardinal rule of dental hygiene. However, not all children have the stamina or focus to brush thoroughly for the recommended two minutes. This may result in leaving behind plaque bacteria that can contribute to cavities. You can help your child by making brushing a daily routine together and ensuring they brush all surfaces of their teeth, including the molars in the back. Additionally, consider timing your childs brushing routine under your supervision to ensure the quality of brushing.

• • 2. High Sugar Intake Dietary choices can have a significant impact on dental health. Sugary snacks and drinks, especially those consumed frequently throughout the day, create a favorable environment for bacteria to thrive in the mouth, leading to cavities. Encourage your child to eat a healthy diet that includes a variety of whole grains, vegetables and fruits, while limiting their intake of sugary and acidic foods. Also, try to minimize between-meal unhealthy snacks and drinks that may harm the teeth.

• • 3. Medical Conditions and Medications Some medical conditions that affect oral health, such as dry mouth or acid reflux, can increase your childs risk for cavities. Certain medications that affect saliva flow or pH levels in the mouth can also contribute to cavities. If your child has a chronic medical condition or takes daily medications, consult with your dentist or physician to develop an appropriate oral care plan that addresses their specific needs.

• • 4. Genetics Some children may be more susceptible to cavities due to their genetic makeup. Although this factor is beyond your control, understanding your childs genetic predisposition to cavities can help you take proactive steps to minimize their risk. For example, your pediatric dentist may recommend more frequent check-ups and cleanings, fluoride treatments, or sealants to protect the teeth.

• 5. Oral Inspections Your childs cavities could be due to undetected food or debris that is stuck between teeth or under the gum line, leading to decay and cavities. Thats why its crucial to take your child to regular dental check-ups to ensure that such conditions are detected early. Regular dental examinations can identify and treat any emerging dental problems early, leading to cheaper and more straightforward dental treatment than later stages of tooth decay.

There are different reasons why your child may be prone to cavities.

It is essential to identify the cause to prevent further damage, and that should all start from maintaining proper oral hygiene, minimizing sugary foods and acidic drinks, those with a dry mouth or acid reflux, and being strict with regular dental check-ups. We hope that this information has been helpful, and we welcome you to our dental center. As a pediatric dentist in Glendale, CA, we are dedicated to ensuring you and your child have healthy, beautiful smiles that will last a lifetime.