(By Dr. Joseph D. Lim and Dr. Kenneth Lester Lim, BS-MMG, DDM, MSc-OI)
CAVITIES are also called caries or tooth decay. They are the most common oral health issue of Filipino children.
Left untreated, cavities can cause pain and infections that may lead to problems with eating, speaking, playing, and learning. This is particularly worrying for children who have poor oral health as they often miss more school and receive lower grades than children who don’t.
In the United States, more than half of children aged 6 to 8 have had a cavity in at least one of their baby (primary) teeth. More than half of adolescents aged 12 to 19 have had a cavity in at least one of their permanent teeth.
Children aged 5 to 19 years from low-income families are twice as likely to have cavities, compared with children from higher-income households, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The good news is that cavities are preventable.
Fluoride varnish can prevent about one-third (33 percent) of cavities in the primary (baby) teeth. Children who brush daily with fluoride toothpaste will have fewer cavities.
Dental sealants can also prevent cavities for many years. Applying dental sealants to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth prevent 80% of cavities.
For babies, parents can wipe gums twice a day with a soft, clean cloth in the morning after the first feeding and right before bed to wipe away bacteria and sugars that can cause cavities.
When teeth come in, start brushing twice a day with a soft, small bristled toothbrush and plain water.
Visit the dentist by your baby’s first birthday to spot signs of problems early.
Talk to your dentist or doctor about putting fluoride varnish on your child’s teeth as soon as the first tooth appears.
For children younger than 2, consult first with your doctor or dentist regarding the use of fluoride toothpaste.
For children, brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Help your child brush their teeth until they have good brushing skills.
If your child is younger than 6, watch them brush. Make sure they use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and always spit it out rather than swallow.
Ask your child’s dentist to apply dental sealants when appropriate.
When you’re pregnant, you may be more prone to gum disease and cavities, which can affect your baby’s health. Follow these 3 steps to protect your teeth:
See a dentist (it’s safe!) before you deliver. Brush your teeth twice a day. Floss Daily.
If you have nausea, rinse your mouth with 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water after you get sick. This helps wash stomach acid away and keep your tooth enamel safe.
Your child’s chance of getting cavities can be higher if:
Family members (older brothers, sisters, or parents) have cavities. They eat and drink a lot of sugary foods and drinks, like soda, especially between meals.
They have special health care needs. They wear braces or orthodontics or oral appliances.
If any of these apply to your child, be sure to talk with your dentist, pediatrician, or family doctor to make sure you are taking extra steps to protect your child’s teeth.
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Dr. Joseph D. Lim, Ed. D., is the former Associate Dean of the College of Dentistry, University of the East; former Dean, College of Dentistry, National University; Past President and Honorary Fellow of the Asian Oral Implant Academy; Honorary Fellow of the Japan College of Oral Implantologists; Honorary Life Member of the Thai Association of Dental Implantology; and Founding Chairman of the Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail jdlim2008@gmail.com or text 0917-8591515.
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Dr. Kenneth Lester Lim, BS-MMG, DDM, MSc-OI, graduated Doctor of Dental Medicine, University of the Philippines, College of Dentistry, Manila, 2011; Bachelor of Science in Marketing Management, De la Salle University, Manila, 2002; and Master of Science (MSc.) in Oral Implantology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany, 2019. He is an Associate Professor; Fellow, International Congress of Oral Implantologists; Member, American Academy of Implant Dentistry and Fellow, Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail limdentalcenter@gmail.com./PN
