Preventing Cavities in Kids
Cavities are the most common chronic disease in children—but they’re also one of the most preventable. Most parents already know to brush and floss. But here are four high-impact habits that actually move the needle—and might surprise you.
Here’s What Actually Prevents Cavities
Most Cavities Happen Between the Teeth
(And Not All Kids Even Need to Floss!)
This surprises a lot of parents—but the majority of cavities we see in young kids start between the teeth where the toothbrush can’t reach.
If your child’s teeth are tight (touching), they need to be flossed every day. If there are visible gaps between their teeth, you can hold off for now. But once the contacts close—usually around age 3 to 6—flossing becomes non-negotiable.
Pro tip: Use kids’ floss picks to make things easier, especially if your child has a small mouth or strong gag reflex.
It's Not About How Much Sugar—It's About How Often
Most people assume sugar causes cavities—but the real issue is frequency.
Your child’s mouth can handle a little sugar. It’s the constant snacking and sipping that leads to tooth decay. Every time they eat or drink something with sugar or carbs, acid levels spike and start attacking enamel. It takes 20–30 minutes for the mouth to neutralize that acid—unless they’re constantly reintroducing sugar.
If your child snacks every hour, or sips juice all afternoon, their teeth never get a break.
The fix: Stick to set meal and snack times. Offer water in between. This gives their teeth time to recover and remineralize.
Brush After Flossing—And Don’t Rinse
We get it—fluoride toothpaste has become controversial. We take a balanced, research-backed approach. Here’s how to make brushing count:
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Use the right amount of toothpaste (grain of rice for under 3, pea-sized for ages 3–6).
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Floss first to remove food and plaque hiding between teeth.
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Brush thoroughly to coat every surface.
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Don’t rinse after brushing, especially before bed. Let the minerals from the toothpaste stay on the teeth and work overnight.
Most parents don’t realize that rinsing washes away the protective ingredients right when they’re most effective.
Don’t Skip Visits—Cavities Grow Fast
We hear it all the time: “We were just in six months ago and they only had one cavity. Now they have eight!”
Cavities in baby teeth can spread quickly—especially between the teeth where you can’t see them. Once one tooth breaks down, the surrounding ones are more likely to follow.
In fact, studies show kids who develop 1 or 2 cavities early on are likely to have 6–12+ cavities within a year if left untreated.
The good news: Catching cavities early means smaller fillings, less invasive treatment, and less money out of pocket. Preventive visits are usually 100% covered by insurance, while treatment adds up fast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How often should my child visit the dentist?
A: We recommend that children visit the dentist every six months for regular check-ups and cleanings. However, Dr. Williams may suggest a different schedule based on your child’s specific needs.
Q: At what age should my child start using fluoride toothpaste?
A: The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends using a smear (size of a grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste for children under 3 years old, and a pea-sized amount for children aged 3 to 6 years.
Q: Are dental sealants safe, and how long do they last?
A: Dental sealants are safe and effective in preventing cavities in children’s molars. They can last for several years but need to be checked for wear and tear during regular dental visits.
Q: Can my child eat or drink before treatment with Nitrous Oxide?
A: A light meal is preferred before nitrous oxide treatment, and it’s best to avoid eating anything heavy for at least 2 hours prior to ensure your child’s comfort and prevent nausea.
Have Questions or Want A Second Opinion?
We’re here to help. No pressure, no lectures—just honest advice.
