Protecting your child’s teeth from a young age is one of the best investments in their long-term oral health. Cavities (tooth decay) remain one of the most common dental issues in children — but the great news is that they are highly preventable with the right habits, diet and consistent dental care.

This parent-friendly guide shares dentist-approved tips to help Singapore families keep their children’s teeth healthy, strong and cavity-free.

What Are Cavities and Why Do They Matter?

Cavities occur when bacteria in the mouth break down sugars from food and produce acids that erode tooth enamel. Over time, this leads to tooth decay.

If left untreated, cavities can cause:

  • Toothache or sensitivity
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Infections or dental abscesses
  • Early loss of baby teeth (which affects permanent teeth alignment)
  • Poor oral health habits later in life

Dentist-Approved Cavity Prevention Tips for Children

1. Start Oral Care Early

  • Clean your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth even before teeth erupt.
  • Once teeth appear, brush twice daily using:
    • A rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for children under 3
    • A pea-sized amount for ages 3–6
  • Make brushing fun using music, visual timers or colourful toothbrushes.

2. Teach Proper Brushing & Flossing

  • Children should brush for 2 minutes, covering all tooth surfaces.
  • Start flossing as soon as two teeth touch.
  • Parents should supervise brushing until around age 8 to ensure proper technique.

3. Reduce Sugary & Sticky Foods

Sugary snacks feed bacteria that cause cavities.

Limit:

  • Candies, chocolates, gummies
  • Sugary cereals
  • Carbonated or sweetened drinks

Switch to tooth-friendly snacks like:

  • Fruits
  • Cheese
  • Nuts
  • Crunchy vegetables

4. Encourage Drinking Water

  • Water — especially Singapore’s fluoridated tap water — strengthens teeth naturally.
  • Avoid continuous sipping of juices or sweetened drinks throughout the day.

5. Schedule Regular Dental Check-Ups

Children should visit the dentist every 6 months for:

  • Dental exams
  • Professional cleaning
  • Early detection of decay
  • Preventive care

Dentists may recommend fluoride varnish or dental sealants for added protection.

6. Use Fluoride Wisely

Fluoride improves enamel strength and prevents decay. It may be provided through:

  • Fluoride toothpaste
  • Drinking water
  • Professional fluoride treatments

Always follow your dentist’s advice for age-appropriate use.

7. Limit Nighttime Feeding Habits

Nighttime exposure to milk or juice sugars increases cavity risk.

Avoid:

  • Putting children to sleep with a milk/juice bottle
  • Overnight feeding without brushing afterward

8. Encourage Healthy Chewing Foods

Crunchy foods like apples, carrots and celery increase saliva flow — a natural defense against cavities — and help clean tooth surfaces.

Warning Signs of Cavities in Children

Parents should monitor for:

  • White, brown or black spots on teeth
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold
  • Pain while chewing
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Swelling or redness around a tooth

Early detection means simpler, less invasive treatment.

How Dental Clinic Thomson Supports Children’s Oral Health

Dental Clinic Thomson, part of Ashford Dental Centre’s group of clinics, offers personalized and child-friendly preventive dental care. Our dentists ensure a comfortable, positive experience for young patients.

We provide:

  • Routine dental check-ups & cleaning
  • Fluoride treatments & dental sealants
  • Early cavity detection & treatment
  • Parental guidance on brushing, flossing & diet
  • Gentle care tailored to children’s needs

Our goal is to help children develop strong oral hygiene habits for life — while giving parents clarity and peace of mind.

📅 Book an appointment Today
Ensure your child’s teeth stay healthy, strong and cavity-free.

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📞 Call Now:+65 66904691