How can parents help prevent tooth decay?
The best thing you as a parent can do to help prevent tooth decay from occurring in your child is to begin building good habits from the time your child is an infant. Clean the gums at least once per day before the primary teeth erupt, and twice per day after the teeth have broken through. It is also important that you begin bringing your child to the pediatric dentist as soon as their first tooth has come in.
Continue to teach your child good dental hygiene habits as they grow, and limit their access to sugary foods and drinks. Avoid laying your child down with a bottle or sippy cup. Once your child is old enough, preventive measures such as dental sealants and fluoride treatments can help keep your child protected from the effects of tooth decay as well.