In modern society, especially in America, tooth decay incidents have left even common cold and influenza behind as most infectious disease in children. Most kindergarten students suffer from contagious condition of baby teeth and most common reason behind is lack of information or negligent parenting style. Many times, moms or caregivers who prefer close contact pass oral bacteria to children unknowingly and/or put the baby to bed with the bottle. Inadequate fluoride in baby’s diet may also cause decay in baby teeth.

Primary or baby teeth are temporary but they are important for chewing and speaking and hurt awfully, if they have cavities in them. They also hold space in jaw for permanent teeth and cavities that reach their roots may increase the risk of decay in permanent teeth. Here are some tips for cavity control and to prevent tooth decay in children:

* At night, fill baby’s bottle with water while putting him or her to bed.
* Babies may sprout teeth around 6 months and you should brush them twice each day.
* Children who love chewing gums may be given ones that contain xylitol to decrease the tooth decay risk.
* Drink fruit juices only at meals and use carbonated beverages in a limit until the baby is about two and a half years old as they promote tooth decay.
* For newborns and infants that don’t have teeth yet, clean their mouths with a damp cloth after the feedings.
* Give fluoride to the baby, only if recommended by the pediatrician.
* Have baby’s first oral health risk assessment at six months and then a comprehensive examination by a dentist when he or she is 2 years old.
* Mom’s or caregiver’s oral health and the baby’s oral health are closely relates. So, practice good personal oral hygiene, brush your teeth twice well and floss teeth at least once daily.
* Never give carbonated drinks to your baby and give no more than 4 to 8 ounces of juice daily to the baby and that too only at mealtime.
* Never share utensils with the baby or suck on his or her pacifier or bottle, even for fun.
* Regular visits to dentist are a must for parents with small children.
* Use a fluoride toothpaste and alcohol-free mouthwash with fluoride at night to rinse the mouth.
* When baby’s teeth start touching each other, start flossing them daily.