Dr. Johnny Johnson and Associates, Pediatric Dentists

How Can I Prevent My Child From Getting Cavities?

Brush:

It is recommended that you begin brushing your child’s teeth twice a day as soon as the first tooth comes in.
Prior to the age of 2, use a ‘smear’ of fluoridated toothpaste on a toothbrush.
For children 2-5 years old, dispense a small ‘pea-size’ amount of fluoridated toothpaste and perform or assist your child’s brushing.
Some amount of toothpaste swallowing can be expected, however, swallowing excessive amounts of fluoridated toothpaste can cause stains to form on the permanent teeth. This is why it is important to use only the recommended amount, and encourage your child to spit into the sink after brushing.

Floss:

Flossing should begin as soon as any two adjacent baby teeth are touching!
Daily flossing is very important for your child’s oral health as it helps to prevent tooth decay in places the toothbrush cannot reach.
Flossing takes practice, much like learning to tie shoes or to write in cursive handwriting. Parents should assist children with flossing until they are able to floss properly on their own.

Diet:

Feed your children healthy foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and protein.
Sugary candies, and drinks like Gatorade, sodas, and juices, should be given in moderation.
If your child is going to have a sugary treat or drink, try to limit it to a 10-15 minute time period. (Drinking a sugary drink, sucking hard candies, or chewing sugary gum throughout the day is like a constant sugar bath for your teeth!)
Help keep your child hydrated by giving him/her plenty of water to drink between meals.
To prevent nursing/bottle decay, wean your child from bottle use and/or at-will breast feeding around his/her first birthday.
Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle or sippy cup containing anything other than water.

Tips on diet and snacking

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Dr. Johnny Johnson & Associates Pediatric Dentistry serves Palm Harbor and the surrounding Tampa Bay area, including including Tarpon Springs, New Port Richey, Holiday, North Pinellas, Tampa, Oldsmar, Dunedin, Safety Harbor, Clearwater, Ozona, Odessa, Port Richey, Hudson, New Tampa, Trinity, Hillsborough, East Lake