Tooth enamel acts as the first line of defence for your teeth. Kids and adult teeth are both coated with thin shells of enamel and it serves to protect your teeth from tooth decay and fights off discolouration. It is considered the strongest mineral in the body and is probably the most important. Enamel weakens when acidic particles touch the surface caused by consumption of sugar and bacteria particles forming on teeth. Once the enamel is gone, it cannot be replaced or grow back. This then opens the door for tooth decay and teeth falling out gradually.
The importance of protecting your enamel cannot be underestimated. This is especially important for kids, who are more prone to poor eating habits as they grow. Parents have a duty to protect their teeth and adopt healthy dental habits to keep enamel strong.
The Five Tips
You can follow the five tips below to protect childrens enamel.
- Avoid Sugary Food And Drink – Kids are more prone to eating high levels of sugar as they grow up. However, it needs to be limited as sugar feeds the bacteria on teeth to form acids. These acids are what damages the enamel. Start your kid’s healthy food and drink habits early, even before their first tooth grows so they become accustomed to healthy food and drink.
- Regular Brushing And Flossing – Keep enamel clear from plaque and debris on teeth because at some stage bacteria will begin to form. As a parent, be a role model and demonstrate regular brushing and flossing twice a day. Your child will then adapt to this as part of their routine when they’re grown up enough to look after their teeth themselves.
- Rinse The Mouth Regularly – After eating, debris and particles from food stay on teeth. This increases the chances of bacteria forming. Therefore, rinse your child’s mouth with water to keep teeth clean. This will prevent the chance of enamel erosion and tooth decay.
- Regular Check-Up Appointments – Regular check-up appointments at the dentist should not be underestimated. The dentist is best placed to determine the state of kid’s teeth and advise on appropriate steps to keep their oral health strong. The dentist is able to identify any dental concerns that can’t be found when at home.
- Eat Calcium-Rich Foods – A good source of calcium is exactly what your enamel needs to stay strong. It neutralises acids to reduce chances of decay in teeth. Feed your child with calcium food with meals such as vegetables, nuts and fish. These are also good alternatives if they’re lactose intolerant.
If your kid is suffering from a dental emergency, read tips on what to do next
Final Thoughts
The enamel needs to be looked after throughout our lifetime. The stronger the enamel the stronger the underlying bone, which is what teeth rely on to hold its position. Follow these tips to neutralise any dangers to your child’s enamel. However, if your child’s enamel is weak and they’re in danger of decay, there are cosmetic treatments that can be given to save your child’s oral health. Read on here to see how cosmetic dentistry can save your child’s teeth.
Seeking further support for your child’s teeth? Do you need to get your child’s teeth checked? Sutherland Dental promises to keep your child’s experience happy, relaxed and fun. Contact us now to book with us.
