DC Child Accident & Safety Blog

Pop quiz: Which of the following promote tooth decay?

(A). sugar;
(B). genetics;
(C). low immunity;
(D). watching "American Idol."

The correct answer, of course, is "all of the above" ... with a qualifier for (D). (You have to be snacking on Raisinettes or another sticky fruit while watching the show.)

Although sugar remains the primary suspect in the creation of cavities, people can be genetically disposed toward tooth decay, and low immune function can contribute, as can dietary habits generally considered healthful--sticky fruits such as raisins, although preferable to sucking on a Popsicle, also leave teeth vulnerable to the ravages of sugar residue.

So what can a concerned parent do?

It's hard enough for parents to control so many factors conspiring to turn their kids' mouths into a gaping maw of dental disaster, but now there's something else to consider. According to the Los Angeles Times, several studies have shown that cavity-causing bacteria can be passed from primary caregivers to wee ones.

Children are most susceptible as infants and toddlers, when their immune systems are works-in-progress. But any age before children have the motor skills necessary to brush well by themselves requires parental invervention for maximum protection.

If you want to hold the line on sharing the bacterial love that can compromise your child's oral health not only as a youngster but after the arrival of permanent teeth and into adulthood, first take care of yourself. Expectant mothers should address any dental decay or gum problems before Junior arrives to reduce the likelihood of transmitting disease. And the use of an antibacterial mouthwash during the lower-immune period of infancy and toddlerdom might be wise.

In addition, the dentist should become a close, personal friend of your child probably earlier than you expect. Measures you should take include:

• schedule the first visit to a pediatric dentist at the time the first tooth appears or by the first birthday;


• limit the contents of bottles and sippy cups to water except at mealtime;


• limit snacking to a short interval--bacteria like any kind of sugar, whether from fruit, milk, honey or the refined white sugar in candy;


• assist your child with tooth-brushing until he or she is old enough to tie shoes or write cursive--generally 7 to 9 years old.