Cavities are one of the most common childhood health issues, but the good news is—they’re preventable! At Montgomery, Prattville & Pike Road Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we believe in proactive, preventive care to help kids develop strong, healthy smiles.

If you’re wondering how to keep cavities away and protect your child’s teeth, our pediatric dental experts have some simple, effective tips to share!

1. Establish a Strong Brushing & Flossing Routine

Good oral hygiene starts at home! Teaching kids to brush and floss properly is the first line of defense against cavities.

• Start early! Begin brushing as soon as the first tooth appears.
• Use fluoride toothpaste. For children under 3, use a rice-sized amount; for kids 3 and older, use a pea-sized amount.
• Brush twice a day for at least two minutes—morning and night.
• Floss daily! As soon as teeth touch, flossing is necessary to remove plaque between them.

Expert Tip: Make brushing fun by using a kid-friendly toothbrush, playing their favorite song, or using a brushing timer app!

2. Encourage a Tooth-Friendly Diet

What your child eats plays a big role in their oral health. Sugary and starchy foods can fuel bacteria, leading to plaque buildup and cavities.

Best foods for strong teeth:

• Crunchy fruits & veggies (carrots, apples, celery) – Help clean teeth naturally.
• Dairy products (cheese, yogurt, milk) – Strengthen enamel with calcium.
• Water – The best drink for keeping mouths clean and hydrated!

Limit cavity-causing foods:

• Sticky candies (gummies, fruit snacks) – These stick to teeth and promote decay.
• Sugary drinks (soda, juice, sports drinks) – High in sugar and acid, which weaken enamel.

Expert Tip: If your child has a sugary treat, have them drink water and brush their teeth afterward to wash away harmful sugars.

3. Protect Teeth with Fluoride & Sealants

Fluoride and sealants are two of the best tools for preventing cavities.

• Fluoride strengthens enamel, making teeth more resistant to decay. We offer fluoride treatments during regular checkups.
• Dental sealants act as a shield over the chewing surfaces of back teeth, preventing bacteria and food from getting stuck.

Expert Tip: Ask us about sealants for your child’s molars—they can reduce the risk of cavities by up to 80%!

4. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups & Cleanings

Routine dental visits every six months are essential for:

• Professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar.
• Early detection of cavities before they become serious.
• Personalized oral hygiene tips for your child’s unique needs.

Expert Tip: Bring your child in for their first dental visit by age one or when their first tooth appears!

5. Use a Mouthguard for Sports

If your child plays sports, a custom mouthguard can protect their teeth from injury and fractures, reducing the risk of dental emergencies.

Expert Tip: A well-fitted mouthguard is more effective and comfortable than store-bought options. Ask us about getting a custom one for your child!

Keep Cavities Away with Expert Pediatric Dental Care!

Preventing cavities is all about consistent oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and regular dental visits. At Montgomery, Prattville & Pike Road Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’re here to help your child build great habits and maintain a healthy, cavity-free smile.