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Sugar and Children's Teeth


 child staring at blocks of sugar cubesCookies, pies, and ice cream all have sugar as their primary ingredient. However, did you know that there are other unassuming locations where sugar may be found, like spaghetti, ketchup, yogurt, canned soup, and granola bars?

When it comes to treats and candies, it's simple to restrict kids' sugar consumption, but when sugar is snuck into otherwise nutritious dishes, meal and snack preparation may become challenging. Less than 25 grams of sugar a day should be consumed by kids between the ages of two and 18. More than this can be detrimental to your child's dental and general health. Make an appointment with Smile Kids! Pediatric Dentistry to have your child's gums cleaned and examined if you've discovered that he or she has more cavities than you believe is normal or that their gums are red and swollen.

Sugar Vs. Your Children's Teeth


There are billions of microorganisms in our mouths. Healthy nutrition, frequent dental cleanings, and good oral hygiene practices prevent harmful bacteria from outnumbering good bacteria. Calcium and phosphate are present in the enamel and give it strength. When we eat sugary foods, bacteria break them down and release acid as a result. This acidic solution dissolves the minerals' enamel, removing it (demineralization). With frequent contact with this solution, the enamel will deteriorate and grow weaker. Even though the pH of the mouth is neutral, an acidic environment might promote the growth of cavities. The acidic fluid in the mouth lowers the pH, making the mouth more acidic.

It only takes the bacteria around 20 seconds to break down the meal and produce the acid. This mixture touches your teeth when you consume sweet foods. Saliva can counteract the effects of the acid, but it takes 20 minutes. This suggests that the enamel endures the harsh impacts of the acid for 20 minutes!

Prevent Cavities in Your Children


Everyone likes sugar or chocolate, especially kids. But the risk of tooth decay increases with sugar consumption. It is advised to limit your intake of sugary foods, but if that isn't possible, do so in moderation. Additionally, immediately brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash.

Fluoride contained in saliva can be used to stop the demineralization process in the enamel. Acid attacks can be lessened by using toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride. Fluoride also aids in reabsorbing calcium and phosphate that have been lost, strengthening the enamel. Inquire with the dentist about how much fluoride is appropriate for your child. Use a kid-friendly toothbrush with gentle bristles and replace it every three to four months.

Every six months or as directed by the dentist, take your child to the dentist. The early diagnosis of tooth deterioration will be aided by these routine dental examinations.

Schedule an Appointment


Children's dentistry services are provided by Smile Kids! Pediatric Dentistry with the goal of preventing dental caries. To get rid of plaque and tartar, which can cause cavities, gum disease, and other serious issues, we offer expert cleanings. To seal the deep grooves on young children's permanent molars and stop cavities, dental sealants are another component of our preventative dentistry procedures. You can get in touch with us by contacting (276) 663-0065 to make an appointment with us.
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Phone


(276) 663-0065

Hours


Mon: 9:30am - 4pm
Tues: 9:30am - 4pm
Wed: 9:30am - 4pm
Thurs: 9:30am - 4pm
Friday: 9:30am - 4pm
Saturday: We are open one Saturday a month by appointment.
We are closed for federal Holidays.

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Smile Kids! Pediatric Dentistry, 24560 Southpoint Drive, Suite 240, Aldie, VA 20105; (276) 663-0065; smilekidsva.com; 10/20/2024; Associated Words: pediatric dentist Aldie Virginia;