Optimal plaque removal
On eruption of the first primary tooth in a child, tooth brushing and cleaning should be performed by an adult. This is important as the plaque that attaches to the surface of the tooth has bacteria that have the ability to cause caries (decay) on the tooth surface. It is recommended to brush childrens teeth using a soft bristled, age and size appropriate toothbrush and age appropriate toothpaste twice daily, however children below the age of two usually dont require toothpaste. These researches also suggest that it is suitable to brush childrens teeth until they reach the approximate age of 6; where they will begin to learn adequate dexterity and cognition needed for adequate brushing by themselves. It is encouraged to watch children brushing their teeth until they are competently able to brush appropriately alone. Fluoride
Fluoride is a natural mineral that naturally occurs throughout the world – it is also the active ingredient of many toothpastes specifically for its remineralizing effects on enamel, often repairing the tooth surface and reducing the risk of caries. The use of fluoridated toothpaste is highly recommended by dental professionals; whereby studies suggest that the correct daily use of fluoride on the dentition of children has a high caries-preventive effect and therefore prevents has potential to prevent ECC.
As Early Childhood Caries occurs in children under the age of 5, restorative treatment is conventionally performed under general anesthetic to prevent a traumatic experience for the child. Still, the literature shows a high rate of caries relapse after treatment under general anesthesia, sometimes as early as 6 months after treatment was rendered.Dental professionals now have a safe, inexpensive, and less invasive option to manage Early Childhood Caries: Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a liquid containing silver and fluoride that can be brushed on teeth to stop decay, relieve sensitivity, and prevent cavities from getting worse. Silver kills the bacteria that cause tooth decay and fluoride helps strengthen the tooth. SDF is applied directly to the area of decay without first having to drill the tooth. SDF is an inexpensive option that is simple to apply; however, although it stops the decay from progressing, it does not fill the cavity, and the tooth may still need to be restored with a filling or crown. After treatment with SDF, arrested decay will become black, but a dental provider can cover the treated area with a white filling material if needed. This may be less of a problem in baby teeth, which will be lost as the child ages, than for permanent teeth. Even so, because applying SDF is quick, it may be especially helpful for young children and other patients who have trouble sitting still during dental treatments, avoiding the need for sedation or general anesthesia.