How sugar can affect your kids oral health

It’s common knowledge that consuming too much sugar can lead to tooth decay.    Do you know how much sugar is in your kids food?

Your kids mouth is full of bacteria and if your child doesn’t clean their teeth thoroughly afterwards eating sugary foods or drink, bacteria will use the sugar to stick to the surface of the teeth and feed itself. As it feeds, it will quickly multiply, forming plaque and producing acid. This acid destroys the tooth enamel, which is the protective outer layer of the tooth. Cavities are essentially a bacterial infection created by these acids forming a hole in the teeth. Left untreated, cavities are able to progress beyond the enamel and deeper into the tooth, causing pain and possible tooth loss.

Top tips for cutting down sugar:

• Reduce overall consumption of sugar
• Reduce frequency of consumption sugar throughout today
• Watch for hidden sugars in fruit juices, commercial sauces & soups, breakfast cereals (always read the label)

The importance of good Oral Hygiene and how it can benefit your kids

Good oral hygiene is important for everyone to practice, but for children who tend to consume large amounts of sugar from their food and drinks, cleaning the teeth thoroughly and effectively becomes even more crucial.

If you think your child may be at risk of developing cavities because of a sweet tooth, here are some tips to help protect their teeth and keep their smiles safe from tooth decay and cavities without cutting out all their sugary treats.

• Really young children its a good idea to supervise brushing to ensure children using the correct
  technique and not just eating toothpaste!
•  3 minutes brushing twice a day.
• Interdental cleaning method also important once a day – ensure that this is also supervised so as
  gums & other supporting tissues are protected.
• Ensure that you clean back teeth as these teeth are often overlooked when brushing done in
  haste.

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