Dental Insurance Plus – Early Childhood Caries
Parents and caregivers play a role in reducing the risk of early childhood caries in children.
Cavities in children ages 2 to 5 increased from 24 percent to 28 percent between 1988-1994 and 1999-2004 and are still on the rise. Parents and caregivers should provide a well-balanced diet but stop un-restricted, at-will consumption of liquids, beverages, and foods containing fermentable carbohydrates, which can contribute to decay after the eruption of the first tooth. Provide proper oral hygiene practices, such as cleaning an infant’s teeth after consuming foods and liquids containing fermentable carbohydrates. Periodically check your child’s teeth at home as directed by your child’s dentist. A baby should have their first dental visit by the time their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday
