How Our Dental Clinic Helps Prevent Cavities in Toddlers

patkoncz2407
Jan 13
2 min read

Tooth decay in young children is more than just a cavity; it’s a growing public health concern. Some studies from KFL&A Public Health show that in some communities, over 40% of children in senior kindergarten have experienced tooth decay. But many parents still believe that baby teeth don’t matter. At By The Lake Dental, we want families to know: early prevention makes all the difference.

Our kids' dentists and dental team recommend booking your child’s first dental visit much earlier than most parents think. As the Canadian Dental Association recommends, this visit should happen within 6 months of the first tooth appearing, or by age one. This allows our team to find problems right away and assess if home cleaning is working effectively, which is especially important for children at high risk of decay.

But brushing technique matters too. Children shouldn’t brush alone until they can tie their shoelaces, that’s when they’ve developed enough motor control. The Oral Health Foundation provides clear guidelines on toothpaste amounts: for children under three, only a smear of fluoride toothpaste is needed, while children over three should use a pea-sized amount. And one tip that surprises many parents: don’t rinse after brushing. Spitting out the excess toothpaste leaves a protective layer of fluoride on the teeth for longer.

Our kids' dentists and dental team also encourages families to check labels on snacks, yogurts, cereals and drinks. Many contain hidden sugars that contribute to decay even in children with “good” brushing habits. Consistency, supervision and early dental care can prevent painful treatments later.

If your toddler hasn’t seen a dentist yet, now is the time. We’re here to support families with practical advice and gentle care from the very first tooth.

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