How Can Kids Prevent Plaque On Their Teeth?

It is very important to help your children prevent plaque buildup and maintain good overall oral health. There are several ways to prevent plaque, and it is a great way to instill healthy habits in your child at a young age. Plaque is always there, but if you can do things to prevent the buildup, it will improve your child’s oral health. Let’s explore what plaque is, why it’s a concern, and how you can keep your child healthy and clean.

What Is Plaque?

Plaque is a soft, sticky film that covers your teeth and eventually becomes tartar. Around four hours after brushing your teeth, plaque starts to form. It is made up of bacteria and food particles that begin to release acid and break down the enamel on your teeth. Plaque thrives on the sugars and starches present in foods and beverages such as candy, soda, and starchy items like bread and crackers. If these sugars are not adequately cleaned away through brushing, they become a food source for bacteria. This bacteria then produces harmful acids that can damage tooth enamel. Plaque is invisible to the eye, but if it’s not removed, it eventually hardens and can only be eliminated by a dental professional. 

Is Plaque Bad For Your Child’s Teeth?

Plaque buildup is bad for children’s teeth and something a parent should try to avoid. To reduce the risk of developing tooth decay and cavities, minimizing the amount of plaque on your child’s teeth is necessary. Over time, plaque buildup can lead to more serious issues, including cavities, tooth infections, and tooth loss. All of these conditions require more expensive dental work. 

How To Prevent Plaque Buildup In Your Child?

Here are a few tips to help your child prevent plaque buildup before it leads to more serious issues: 

Establish Good Oral Care Routines

Encourage your child to brush their teeth twice daily using fluoride toothpaste. Parents should supervise and assist until children develop the skill to brush effectively on their own. Introduce flossing early, commonly around two years old, when the teeth start touching. This helps remove plaque and food between your teeth. 

Promote Healthy Eating Habits

A balanced diet prevents plaque buildup. Limit sugary snacks and beverages, as the bacteria in plaque thrive on sugar. Instead, encourage the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Encourage water as the go-to drink, and save sugary treats for special occasions.

Schedule Regular Dental Appointments 

Don’t miss your regular dental check-ups! You should schedule 2 cleanings a year for your children. Our experienced dentists will catch and treat plaque-related issues early and provide guidance on proper oral care. Schedule an appointment with our pediatric dental team in Bedford, NH today!

Book A Pediatric Dentist Appointment at Jo-Anne Johnson DMD Family Dentistry

As pediatric dentists, our team knows how to handle plaque buildup and fight tooth decay. We understand dental cleanings can be scary for children early in life, so we want to do everything possible to make them comfortable. Discover more about Dr. Jo-Anne Johnson and the pediatric dental services we offer. To schedule an appointment, please call us at 603-471-6000.