How To Protect Kids' Teeth This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for food, family, and festivities. This holiday is about so much more than turkey. It's also about fun, family, and, of course, food. This holiday really can be enjoyed by everyone, but it can be especially enjoyable for little ones.

Healthy Eating Habits

While it may be tempting to let your kids indulge on turkey and pie this year, you should encourage them to practice moderation when it comes to eating at holiday meals or parties. Your kids' teeth will be healthier if they eat the right foods in moderation. Make sure that they drink water, chew sugarless gum after a meal, and practice good dental hygiene after they indulge. Then, they'll be able to enjoy their treats without suffering the consequences!

Sealants

One fun way to celebrate this holiday is by enjoying some pumpkin pie! However, if your family has a habit of not brushing their teeth after eating sweets, especially sticky ones like pie, your young ones could be at risk of developing cavities. Tooth decay is one of the leading chronic diseases affecting children in the United States. In fact, nearly a third of children ages two to eleven have experienced tooth decay in their primary teeth, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Cavities develop when plaque and bacteria build up on the tooth enamel and eat away at the tooth structure. It is best for kids to get the sugar off their teeth as soon as possible with a thorough scrubbing. Thankfully, most dentists can place a protective sealant on a child's molars after they have fully erupted. A dental sealant acts as a barrier against harmful plaque and bacteria on these teeth. Keep in mind that sealants do not last forever; they typically need to be replaced every five to ten years. If kids need a new sealant applied, then the dentist will check their mouth for any signs of tooth decay. Once it has been cleared, the dental sealant can be applied. 

Fluoride Treatments

A fluoride treatment is a great way to help ensure your child's teeth don't fall victim to cavities this Thanksgiving. That's because this treatment can help prevent and fight off tooth decay, which is the most common chronic childhood disease in America today! In addition, fluoride treatments can also help protect children's enamel from plaque buildup that can contribute to gum disease.

We hope your family has a fun, candy-filled Thanksgiving this year!

Visit We C Kids at 10643 Valley Blvd Suite A/B, El Monte, CA 91731, for more tips. Contact us at (626) 628-2424 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.