Tooth Decay in Children
Early tooth decay is one of the most critical diseases in pediatric dentistry. Due to children’s low age, the treatment process is complicated. Family environment and oral hygiene are essential. Tooth decay is possible to occur at a young age because the baby cannot clean his or her teeth. According to a Toronto pediatric dentist, children under the age of two are more vulnerable to tooth decay because they are feed on breast milk while sleeping. In this case, the milk remains on the baby’s teeth and cause tooth decay. Parents are advised to clean their child’s teeth with a sterile wet bandage every time the baby is breastfed.
Factors that Cause Tooth Decay in Children
1) Parents do not clean their children’s teeth
2) Using improper nutrition:
– Use a glass of milk to calm down the child while they are sleeping
– Give the baby milk at night
3) Decreased salivation during sleep
4) The child’s parents may have decayed teeth that can be transmitted to the child’s teeth if left untreated.
5) The use of inappropriate snacks
6) Parents’ unawareness of the techniques of prevention and timely referral to the pediatric dentist for a dental examination
7) Over-consuming sweets
What Mouthwash is Suitable for Children?
Choosing the right mouthwash for children is one of the essential oral cares for children. The reasons for introducing mouthwashes to children are also to prevent tooth decay, to reduce tooth plaque, to reduce and prevent gingivitis, as well as to have a pleasant breath. But do not forget that without a prescription of the pediatric dentist should not be taken. Pediatric dentists can recommend mouthwashes depending on the child’s need. But, it cannot replace a toothbrush or tooth floss. Specialists may recommend using a fluoride-based mouthwash or antimicrobial agent as part of your child’s daily dental care process. However, the proper amount of mouthwash should be carefully observed in this regard. Because overusing mouthwash in a long period can cause discoloration or staining of teeth.
Mouthwash is a solution for cleaning food leftover from the mouth and removing plaque on the teeth that is usually used after tooth brushing. It is part of the daily dental care process. Children dentist also recommend for tooth decay and gum disease. There are different types of mouthwashes that all have the same function. Their main task is to disinfect teeth against decay and eliminate bad breath. Mouthwash contains sodium fluoride, which helps to strengthen the enamel and also to protect it from decay. However, fluoride is also present in toothpaste and city water. Cosmetic mouthwashes, unlike all types of mouthwashes, do not protect teeth. Most are used to eliminate bad breath. So they have no role in reducing the risk of tooth decay.
There are two types of mouthwash: Disinfectant mouthwashes and Natural mouthwashes. Disinfectant mouthwashes: Contain a chemical that limits the growth of bacteria in the mouth. The use of these mouthwashes is suitable for people who have an oral infection. Besides, these mouthwashes are ideal for people who have bad breath (halitosis). Natural mouthwashes: They are alcohol-free and fluoride-free and function like traditional mouthwashes. Like brine, that is good after tooth extraction. These mouthwashes can be used to treat infection or damage. It is better to use alcohol-free mouthwashes instead of alcohol-based mouthwashes because alcohol-based mouthwashes create more problems for the person. If you have sensitive gums or have had dental treatment in dentist office, the best mouthwash is a natural mouthwash.