{"id":2604,"date":"2025-07-04T14:21:06","date_gmt":"2025-07-04T12:21:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/clinicadentalacampana.com\/?p=2604"},"modified":"2025-07-04T14:21:06","modified_gmt":"2025-07-04T12:21:06","slug":"childhood-cavities-how-to-prevent-and-treat-it","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/clinicadentalacampana.com\/en\/childhood-cavities-how-to-prevent-and-treat-it\/","title":{"rendered":"Childhood cavities: how to prevent and treat them from an early age"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Childhood cavities<\/strong> are one of the most common oral diseases in children. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, they affect more than 60% of school-aged children. At Cl\u00ednica Dental La Campana, we believe that good oral health from the very first years of life is key to preventing future problems. That\u2019s why in this article we\u2019ll explain how to prevent cavities, how to spot them early, and which treatments are most effective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What are childhood cavities?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Childhood cavities are lesions that appear due to the demineralisation of tooth enamel caused by bacteria. These bacteria feed on sugars from food and produce acids that gradually erode the enamel surface. If left untreated, cavities can progress to the deeper layers of the tooth, causing pain and possible infection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although we often associate cavities with adult teeth, they also affect baby teeth<\/strong>. And even though these are temporary, it\u2019s essential to look after them, as they help with chewing, speech development and keeping space for permanent teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"childhood<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

How can we prevent childhood cavities?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The prevention of childhood cavities begins at home with good oral hygiene and a healthy, balanced diet. Here are some simple but effective tips to help protect your little one\u2019s smile:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Oral hygiene from the first tooth<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Many parents wonder when to start brushing their child\u2019s teeth. The answer is simple: as soon as the first tooth erupts<\/strong>. Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day using a child-friendly toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste. Brushing should always be supervised by an adult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Limit sugar intake<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sugary foods and drinks such as sweets, fizzy drinks and pastries feed the bacteria responsible for cavities. Reduce their intake, especially between meals, and encourage healthier options like fresh fruit, natural yoghurt or cheese.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Regular dental check-ups<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regular dental visits allow early detection of childhood cavities<\/strong> and help implement preventive measures. At Cl\u00ednica Dental La Campana, we recommend scheduling your child\u2019s first dental visit before their first birthday<\/strong>, followed by check-ups every six months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What are sealants and how do they help prevent childhood cavities?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

One of the most effective tools for preventing childhood cavities\u2014especially in molars\u2014is the use of fissure sealants<\/strong>. These are thin coatings made from a resin material that are applied to the chewing surfaces of permanent molars, usually between the ages of 6 and 12.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fissure sealants create a physical barrier that protects the deep grooves and pits of the molars\u2014areas where food tends to get trapped and brushing is more difficult. They are completely painless, non-invasive, and very effective in reducing the risk of cavities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At our clinic, we use high-quality resin sealants<\/strong>, applied by our expert paediatric dental team after a personalised evaluation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"childhood<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

How are childhood cavities treated?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If a cavity has already formed, it\u2019s important to treat it as soon as possible to prevent complications. The treatment will depend on the extent of the damage:<\/p>\n\n\n\n