Preventing Pediatric Tooth Decay From the Office of Ophir Alalouf, DDS

• As dentists are seeing an increasing number of serious pediatric tooth problems, parents must remain vigilant and take every step possible to encourage good oral hygiene in their children.

Below, Dr. Alalouf’s office in Rockville, MD, offers several useful tips for improving the health of young ones’ teeth and gums.

• Limit sugar intake: By far the most prevalent reason for tooth decay in children, sugar intake is on the rise.

Many parents consistently soothe a crying toddler with juice from a sippy cup, unaware of the negative dental effects.

• In fact, parents should limit the amount of juice to four ounces a day or less. In addition, dentists recommend cutting back on the number of snacks.

Set down brushing rules: Since many children whine when their teeth are brushed, some parents simply give up in an effort to pacify them.

• But proper oral health requires a strict brushing routine.

Some parents find success with a fingertip brush or a washcloth applied to the gums.

• See a dentist early: Many people are unaware that children should visit a dentist around age one, even if they only have a few teeth. Pediatric specialists examine toddlers for possible future decay, and they provide parents with a timetable and informational resources to ensure good oral hygiene.

•About Ophir Alalouf, DDS

With 15 years of experience as a pediatric dentist in Maryland, Dr. Alalouf regularly visits schools in and around Rockville on career days and other occasions to educate children on the importance of cleaning their teeth.

Previously, he served for several years as the Southern Maryland Dental Society’s Chair of Public Information for National Children’s Dental Health Month.