Tooth decay occurs when harmful bacteria in plaque mix with sugar (found in food and drinks) and form an acid.  This acid attacks tooth enamel for about 15-20 minutes after sugar is eaten.  Acid breaks down enamel and causes tooth decay.

To prevent decay:

• brush at least 2 times a day; if possible, after meals and before bed
• use fluoride toothpaste
• floss once a day
• limit intake of sugary foods
• visit your dentist regularly
• have sealants applied

Snacking:

Good snacks are fruits & vegetables, crackers & cheese, breadsticks, dry cereal (low in sugar), cold pizza, hard boiled eggs, cheese/cheese strings, rice or corn cakes, popcorn, pretzels, yogurt, muffins and fruit juice.

Sticky, sugary foods do not make good snacks.  They cause acid to form which can lead to tooth decay.

Foods that should be considered "treats" and  eaten occasionally are fruit roll ups or any fruit snack, granola bars, cereal bars, Joe Louis, Flakey Pastry, Wagon Wheels, chocolate bars, pop, cookies, Dunk-a-Roos, Twinkies, candies and fruit drinks.

Brushing:

Teeth should be brushed thoroughly at least twice a day or, if possible, after every meal and at bedtime. Don't rush the brush! Take at least 2 minutes.  Parents should brush children's teeth once a day until the age of 7.  A small pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste should be used and children should be encouraged not to swallow toothpaste during brushing.

Use a brush that:

• has soft bristles
• is small enough to fit well in your child's mouth
• is replaced every 3-4 months, or after colds or flu
   

How to brush:

• begin at the back of the mouth and follow the teeth around to the other side.  Clean the inside and outside of teeth this way.
• angle the toothbrush bristles where the gums and teeth meet.
• gently jab and jiggle.
• for the chewing surfaces, use a back and forth motion.
• finish by gently brushing the tongue and rinsing thoroughly with water.

Flossing:

Flossing removes plaque from places where your toothbrush can't reach.  Parents should floss children's teeth once a day until approximately age 9.

How to floss:

• stand behind your child and cradle your child's head in your arms, or have your child sit on the floor in front of you and lay their head back in your lap
• wrap the floss around each tooth in a "c" shape and clean the tooth by gently moving the floss up and down.
• have your child rinse his/her mouth with water when finished
   

If you have questions about oral hygiene issues talk to your dentist or call the Dental Program at the Health Unit at (705) 743-1000. 
TTY: (705) 743-4700.