Are your kids ready to go trick-or-treating? We’re just a few weeks away from Halloween, so you are likely busy preparing their costumes and decorating the house. While you prepare for this fun holiday, don’t let your family’s oral hygiene routine slip through the cracks. The team at Shirley Orthodontics and Pediatrics in Shirley, NY, is here with a few tips to avoid cavities this season.
Checkups Detect Problems Early
One of the best things you can do for your oral health is practicing consistent preventive care. At home, you can help your kids brush and floss at least twice a day. This helps get rid of food particles and bacteria from throughout the day. If they enjoy snacking throughout the day, this may need to happen a bit more frequently. Along with this at home routine, your little ones should see the dentist twice a year. During this appointment, their teeth will thoroughly be cleaned by a hygienist. Their dentist will then examine their teeth and gums to look for signs of cavities, gingivitis, and more. If any oral health concerns are noted, their dentist can adjust their treatment plan accordingly to restore their smile.
Fluoride & Sealants Add Extra Protection
Cavities are a common problem for patients of all ages, especially for young children. A combination of foods high in sugar and less adequate oral hygiene practices can lead to higher chances of tooth decay. To help with this, your dentist may recommend additional treatments like fluoride treatments or sealants. Fluoride is a mineral that can help strengthen the enamel and prevent cavities. This can be applied topically after a professional cleaning for extra protection. After it is applied, your child will need to avoid eating or drinking for about thirty minutes. Sealants are thin barriers made of resin that can protect the molars from harmful bacteria. They can last for several years and require minimal maintenance.
Stay Hydrated And Pace Your Sweets
Cavities do not happen instantly after eating candy. However, eating an abundance of sweets can certainly speed up the process. This Halloween, you can help protect your child’s smile by limiting the amount of sweets they eat in one night. You can offer your kids less sugary snacks and make sure they drink plenty of water after eating. Limit the amount of sweets for your little one so they can have a few a day instead of eating all their candy in one night. We don’t want your little ones to miss out on this fun holiday, so remember to enjoy everything in moderation!
Schedule Your Next Appointment With Us!
We’re here to keep your little one’s smile healthy! To schedule an appointment with Shirley Orthodontics and Pediatrics in Shirley, NY, call our team today at 631-399-1600.
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