There is a lot of talk in cosmetic dentistry about what to do if you have a cavity, but not as much about cavity prevention.  Cavity prevention begins when you are a child.  A child’s first dental visit should include an examination of how susceptible the child is to cavities.  Brushing should begin as soon as a child’s first tooth comes in.  Since being susceptible to cavities is genetic, it is important that the parent informs the child’s dentist how his or her dental health is.

The amount of starchy and sugary foods that a child eats should be monitored in order to help prevent the formation of cavities.   Brushing and flossing should occur regularly, and children should see the dentist at least twice a year.  If someone develops cavities in their baby teeth as a child, they are several times more likely to develop cavities as an adult.  A cavity won’t physically hurt until it has eaten through the enamel and reached the dentin, so it is important to have a child go to regular dental checkups.