In a recent study by the University of Illinois it was discovered that infants carry a form of bacteria in their Saliva that is a type of tooth decay.
In fact by the time kids reach Kindergarten, research shows that 40% will have cavities. A common belief held by parents is that until children begin to gain their adult teeth that it’s a waste of time off of work and money to bring young ones to the dentist. The problem with this logic is that neglect at an early age can lead to problems later on.
Infant dental care starts at home. Reducing the risk of later problems can be done by lowering the intake of sugary drinks and snacks. Also don’t wait. Begin a regular routine of rubbing the gums of an infant. This will help prevent build up of bacteria that can later form into cavities.
As new teeth break through an infant’s gums, regular inspections can be your second line of defense. If you begin to see discoloration of baby teeth, this is an early sign of tooth decay. This should not be treated just to have healthy teeth, but it also starts a child down the road of good dental behavior leading to less problems as adult teeth begin to grow in. If you suspect your child may have early tooth decay, a quick visit to our Mooresville dentist office can help answer questions and provide confirmation.