"We know that if we get children into the dental office early on before they have dental problems, we can help parents prevent dental disease and help prevent cavities," said Dr. Tom Ison, the President of American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
Tooth decay is one of the most preventable dental diseases. According to a CDC health report, in 2024, about 17% of kids between the age of 6 to 9 years old had a cavity in their baby or permanent teeth.
"Children who are having dental problems that may be causing pain or discomfort, it may prevent them from eating or drinking," said Dr. Ison.
Doctors add that untreated tooth decay also affects a child's sleep routine, their focus in the classroom and can lead to missed school days. Dr. Ison says cavities can hurt a child's overall well-being.
"You can have teeth that get abscess infected and that can compromise overall health, if the gums are not healthy," said Dr. Ison. "If you're not doing a good job of brushing and flossing, that inflamed gingiva can allow bacteria into the body, into the bloodstream through those bleeding gums."
Dr. Ison says families can also prevent cavities in kids by watching what they eat. He says to cut down on the sweet treats and opt for healthier snacks. Using fluoride can also help strengthen and protect our teeth.
"Fluoride soaks into that outer layer or the enamel of the tooth, and it makes it stronger and more resistant to those acids that cause cavities," said Dr. Ison.
By teaching good dental hygiene to children when they're young, they can avoid future tooth troubles.
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