Greensboro, NC dentist helps kids avoid tooth fillings

Cavities were once so commonplace that tooth decay was considered part of growing up. Today, an increasing number of kids remain cavity-free to adulthood. Dr. Sona Isharani shares the following information to help little patients in the Greensboro, NC area avoid the need for tooth fillings.

Cavity facts

According to 2016 findings of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 43 percent of kids had at least one cavity by age 19. That is a big number, but decreased from 50 percent just four years earlier. A child’s likelihood of developing tooth decay varies depending on demographic influences, but the decline emphasizes that your child does not have to get cavities.

Keeping kids in Greensboro, NC free of tooth fillings

Getting your child to the dentist early in life – preferably when the first tooth emerges – plays a vital role in cavity prevention. Here are some additional steps you and Dr. Isharani can take together:

• Children get cavities from family members! Babies are born without the harmful oral bacteria (mutans) that leads to tooth decay. By the age of two, most kids are infected by transfer of saliva from sharing a spoon or toothbrush. It is especially important to avoid oral sharing habits if you or any member of the family have had cavities.
• Control candy and carbs. Frequency of eating sweets and starches is more of a factor than total sugar consumption. Rather than letting your kid nibble on candy or crackers all day, have a scheduled snack as a reward for brushing and flossing immediately after.
• Ban the bottle. The teeth of a child who goes to sleep with a bottle of milk or juice are exposed to sugar attack for ten or more hours. Once the first tooth makes its appearance, switch to water only at naps and nighttime, and for the toddler who carries a sippy cup through the day.
• Consider extra helps. Topical fluoride treatment and dental sealants can significantly reduce risk of cavities.

If your child does get a cavity, don’t panic. Call Dr. Isharani at (336) 804-8668 for strong tooth fillings that blend unnoticeable with the smile.