Caries in children: what they are and how to prevent them.

Considered a minor problem, it could actually compromise oral health even as adults: this is what it is and how to prevent tooth decay in children.

What is a caries

Caries is a condition that affects the hard tissues of the tooth, first affecting the external surface (the enamel) and then going deeper and deeper, coming - if not treated properly - to affect the intermediate layer (dentin) and finally the pulp, the soft tissue which, among other things, causes sensitivity to the tooth.

What are the causes of tooth decay?

Tooth decay can be caused by many factors. The most frequent lies in the action of common microbes present in the oral cavity that thrive under certain conditions. These little creatures in fact aggregate - together with the saliva - in a superficial patina, the plaque, which adheres to the tooth and begins to "erode" it. The microbes of the plaque then feed on the sugars present in the food residues present between the teeth and through their metabolism break up these substances and produce a deminerising acid that attacks the tooth enamel and causes the characteristic cavity hole.

It is therefore understood that the large presence of food residues on the teeth - an indication of poor oral hygiene - is the first trigger of tooth decay, because it offers a perfect environment for the proliferation of microbes. However, also congenital factors such as the structure of the teeth or a low level of immune defenses can expose some people to a greater risk. In these cases it is necessary to contact a dentist.

Caries in children: why worry about it

Children, partly because of their eating habits, partly because of the lack of sympathy towards the toothbrush, are particularly exposed to the risk of cavities, yet this problem is often underestimated, as it is thought that a decayed milk tooth is a a matter of little consequence, given that it is still a provisional element. On the other hand, even a milk tooth must be properly cared for since, in addition to causing pain and hindering chewing, caries can compromise the correct "eruption" of permanent teeth, which risk emerging already weak and easily attacked.

Symptoms of caries in children

A decayed tooth can be recognized by the characteristic "hole" that is created on the tooth itself. However, this represents only the last stage of the pathology.

In fact, initially the tooth begins to acquire opacity and roughness, often also changing color. At this stage there is still no pain, but in a short time the child develops a high dentinal sensitivity and begins to feel discomfort every time the tooth comes into contact with hot or cold food (an ice cream, a cold drink, a hot bite of meat) and sometimes even with simple air, if sufficiently cold.

As the cavity penetrates the tooth, the pain becomes more and more acute, until the development of inflammations that cause gum swelling and pulsating and intense pains.

How to prevent tooth decay

Starting to take care of your teeth from an early age is essential to maintain a healthy mouth and internalize good habits that children will carry with them even in their adult life. Indeed, dental care must begin even before the teeth appear ...

So here are some tips to prevent tooth decay.

• Oral hygiene: it will be trivial, but the first thing to do is to brush the children's teeth well and, at the same time, teach them to do it themselves, from the early years of life, perhaps transforming the moment of cleaning the teeth into a game or in a song.

• No honey on the pacifier: This old-fashioned trick to soothe babies seems harmless but it's not. Even if the teeth have not yet erupted, this practice risks giving them already decayed. For the same reason, it is good to clean the baby's mouth after each meal or feed.

• Nutrition: limiting the consumption of highly sugary foods and drinks not only promotes the health of the body, but also significantly reduces the risk of tooth decay.

• Regular Check-ups: Like many adults, children often fear a visit to the dentist. Undergoing periodic and regular checks, however, not only allows you to monitor the health of your teeth, but helps you to familiarize yourself with a figure who should not inspire any fear.

How to cure tooth decay

If you suspect a caries you should go to a dentist: he will be the one to treat and recommend a therapy for healing. However, to relieve pain and promote the return of a better condition, it is recommended to always keep the mouth clean - also using dental floss - and in case of too acute pangs, contact the pediatrician to be prescribed the right dosage of specific drugs.

Dear mothers, after reading our article we recommend that you visit our Luxury Kids website.