February is National Children's Dental Health Month and our fabulous sponsors at Babineaux Family Dentistry will be providing weekly informational pieces to increase our knowledge on our own children's dental health. To start off the month we will learn or freshen up our memory on how the foods our children eat affect their oral hygiene and how we can combat what those problematic foods can cause.
We all know that a diet high in sugary or starchy foods can lead to cavities. There are actually hundreds of types of bacteria in our mouths. Did you know that bacteria feed on those sugars from the foods we eat producing acidic byproducts? This can lead to tooth decay. Higher levels of sugar and starches in our diet (without proper oral hygiene) lead to a higher level of acidic bacterial byproducts. This unfortunately breaks down the enamel of our teeth over time. These acidic byproducts lead to larger and larger holes or cavities which can ultimately lead to pain or tooth loss if left untreated. A cavity causes permanent damage to a tooth that has to be repaired by a dentist. Fortunately, with minerals in our saliva, fluoride, a healthy diet and proper brushing and flossing we can reduce the possibility of cavity formation. Visiting your dentist regularly can help reduce the occurrence of cavities or at least discover them while they are smaller. Treating cavities at an early stage can reduce the chance of pain and extend the life of your teeth.
Dr. Babineaux urges parents to make sure their children's teeth are brushed twice a day. Brushing at night is the most important time to brush. Remnants of food and beverages that are not brushed and flossed off at night are the main cause of tooth decay. Also, make sure children are not sent to bed with milk or juice or allowed to eat after their teeth are brushed. In addition, flossing every day is a must. Small food particles can get lodged between teeth and may not come out by brushing alone.
Time for your child's bi-annual visit? Call Dr. Babineaux's office at (337) 234-3214 to schedule the visit. Need more information? Visit their website by clicking here. Be sure to follow them on Facebook by clicking here to keep up with specials, giveaways, and important information.
