When you consider your children’s dental health, you can’t forget the importance of tooth enamel—the hard outer surface of teeth designed to guard against tooth decay. Though it’s the strongest mineral substance in a person’s body, enamel needs proper care to offer good protection.

Paul K. Seo, D.D.S., M.S., the pediatric dentist at Dentistry For Kids in Pearl City, HI, has been helping kids maintain healthy smiles for years. Below, he and his staff share advice for keeping your children’s tooth enamel strong and healthy:

• Brush & Floss Often: After a meal or snack, the food that lingers on teeth promotes the growth of bacteria, which can damage enamel and even cause cavities. To prevent this problem, encourage kids to brush twice a day using proper techniques. You should also ensure they floss once a day to get the food that’s really hard to reach.
• Cut Down on Sugar: Kids love treats, but as every children’s dentist will tell you, it’s important to limit sweet beverages and foods. Sugar feeds bacteria on teeth and it causes plaque buildup and cavities. Encourage kids to drink water often, and read labels to look for foods and drinks low in sugar.
• Choose Fluoridated Toothpaste: Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is excellent for teeth because it causes remineralization; fluoride is absorbed in the enamel after it’s applied, and it replaces lost calcium and phosphorous. Brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste strengthens teeth, combats early decay, and cuts down on cavities. Read labels carefully, or ask your pediatric dentist for a recommendation.
• Rinse After Eating: If your child eats a meal or snack on the go, you may not have the ability to brush teeth. As an alternative, swishing around water to rinse off left-behind food is a great way to combat plaque and keep teeth healthier.

If you instill good habits early, your children can enjoy healthy teeth for a lifetime. Whether you’re planning your children’s first dental visit or seeking the best pediatric dentists for your older children, turn to Dentistry for Kids to find exceptional care, a friendly staff, and a comfortable atmosphere. Call (808) 486-8881 today to make an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their services.