Good oral hygiene in toddlers: Causes of cavities and ways to prevent it

Cavities are one of the most common dental problems found in toddlers. Even though baby teeth are temporary, they play a significant role in the development of the child’s oral health. 

Having cavities at a young age can cause pain, discomfort, and other problems. And since we care for you and your little one, we’ve listed the causes of cavities in toddlers, the ways to prevent them and some trusted toddler toothpaste brands. So, keep on scrolling!

Causes of cavities in toddlers

Cavities should not be overlooked as they may lead to severe complications. Toddlers are at a high risk of developing cavities due to the following causes:

• Lack of proper oral hygiene
• Consumption of sugary foods and drinks
• Drinking acidic juices
• Fragile enamel on their teeth
• Reduced saliva production

Ways to prevent cavities

Preventing cavities in toddlers requires a combination of healthy habits and professional dental care. Here are some of the ways you can follow:

• Establish good oral hygiene habits –

These include brushing teeth twice a day, flossing, and regular dental check-ups.

• Avoid giving toddlers sugary snacks and drinks – 

One of the leading causes of tooth decay is the consumption of sugary foods and drinks. These products contain high levels of sugar that can combine with bacteria in the mouth to produce acid. This erodes the tooth enamel and leads to cavities.

• Offer toddlers healthy snacks that are low in sugar –

Adding fruits and vegetables to your child’s diet is a must. These do not only satisfy hunger, but it can also contribute to the overall health and wellbeing of a toddler.

• Encourage toddlers to drink water and milk instead of sugary drinks –

Drinks such as fruit juice and soda contain high amounts of sugar that stick to teeth and can cause cavities. In contrast, water and milk do not contain sugar and can help strengthen teeth. Toddlers should be encouraged to drink water throughout the day and milk at meals to promote good oral health.

• Limit frequent snacking –

Frequent snacking can increase the risk of cavities. When your child eats, bacteria breaks down the sugars and starches in the food, producing acid that attacks the teeth. Encourage your child to eat regular meals and healthy snacks to promote good dental health.

And as we’ve promised, here are some of the trusted toothpaste brands for toddlers to help you take good care of your precious one’s teeth:

Mama’s Choice Baby & Kids Toothpaste

Now’s the time to teach your child the importance of brushing teeth and healthy oral habits with Mama’s Choice Baby & Kids Toothpaste.

It contains a double protection agent, Xylitol and Hydroxyapatite, which help prevent cavities and remineralizes teeth!

What we love about it?

• Ingredients
  • Xylitol helps to prevent tooth decay and cavities
  • Hydroxyapatite remineralizes tooth enamel
  • Organic Calendula is an antibacterial agent and prevents gum irritation

• Safety
  • Suitable for babies 6 months+ and kids 3 years+
  • Double protection agent to maintain oral & dental health

Nature to Nurture Kids Fluoride Toothpaste

Moms who love all-natural items would be delighted to know that there’s a toothpaste for their toddler that is just that. Nature to Nurture is plant-based, cruelty-free, and sugar-free.

It has different flavors depending on your child’s age, but we love this one in Watermelon, which is specifically for children 3 years and up.

What we love about it?

• Ingredients
  • has xylitol and fluoride to prevent cavities
  • with sunflower oil and aloe vera to soothe gums and teeth
  • non-foaming to minimize swallowing
• Safety
  • free from SLS, parabens, colorant, sugar, and gluten
• Others
  • comes in different kind: flavor-free (6 months to 2 years old), grape (3-24 months), and mild mint and watermelon (3 years and up)

Tiny Buds Toddler Tooth Gel

Tiny Buds aim to help parents care for their precious little ones by providing natural baby products that are entirely safe for them. Aside from laundry detergents, nappy rash cream, and dishwashing liquids, Tiny Buds also has a toothpaste product. This Toddler Tooth Gel has a Tutti Fruti flavor and is free from parabens. It is also trusted by pediatricians and dentists alike in helping kids build good oral habits.

What we love about it?

• Ingredients
  • Contains 1000ppm fluoride to prevent cavities
  • Fruity flavor with mild mint to encourage brushing

• Safety
  • 100% food-safe
  • No additional chemicals or preservatives that may harm your child

Toddlers are susceptible to dental caries, but parents can play a crucial role in preventing this common childhood problem. By establishing a daily routine for cleaning their teeth, monitoring their diet, and avoiding sugary foods and drinks, you can protect your child from cavities. These practices can lead them to having a healthy smile for a lifetime. 

Teach good oral hygiene practices now, and your child will thank you for it later in life!