Why do my kids get cavities?

Cavities are caused by a bacterial infection on the teeth known as “caries”. Dental caries is the #1 childhood disease, five times more prevalent than #2, which is asthma. This infection in children is primarily caused by:

• Transmission:  this infection is contagious!  The most common route of transmission is termed “vertical transmission”, which means parents or primary caregivers infect their children.
   
• Prolonged acidic oral environment: this can be associated with a sugary/acidic diet or frequent nursing/bottle feeding.  These factors can promote an acidic bacterial infection.
   
• Lack of proper oral hygiene: keeping the oral environment clean and at an alkaline pH is important even prior to the first tooth erupting.

Expert Advice

• Visit a dentist who is performing “caries risk assessment”, where they evaluate what reasons are contributing to your child getting cavities, and offer treatment of the infection beyond drilling and filling.
   
• Limit not only sugary/carbohydrate containing items in your child’s diet, but also even non-sugar containing acidic beverages (i.e. diet sodas, coffee, tea, sparkling water, fruit juices).
   
• Xylitol is a very effective agent for limiting the acids produced by bacteria and comes in wipes, gums, sprays, mouth rinses, and toothpastes that are safe and that kids love.  Want to learn more about xylitol for kids?  Click here.
   
• Supervise a hygiene program for your children including the use of alkaline pH and xylitol products.
   
• Understand that fluoride is helpful in preventing decay by remineralizing enamel and making it stronger. Using Xylitol products in conjunction with fluoride can be beneficial to oral health.
   
• Check with your local water supply company to find out if there is fluoride in your water and consult with your pediatric dentist to determine if fluoride supplementation is needed.
   
• More information on caries risk assessment for kids can be found in this Policy Statement from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.