Why Kids Are Getting More Cavities Today (and How to Prevent Them)
By Dr. Namratha Umesh
Founder – Dental Conceptz
As a dentist, one of the most common issues I see in children today is tooth decay. Unfortunately, cavities in kids are becoming more frequent than they were a decade ago — and yes, chocolates and candies play a big role, but the story doesn't end there.
Why is this happening?
Children's diets today are often high in sugary juices, packaged snacks, and sticky sweets. Drinks like Maaza, cola, and even "fruit juices" contain high amounts of sugar, which bacteria in the mouth feed on, producing acids that damage enamel. Add to this frequent snacking and poor brushing habits, and we have the perfect recipe for cavities.
The hidden culprit – "sugar bugs"
I like to explain to my young patients that cavities are caused by "sugar bugs" — harmful bacteria that create holes in the teeth. The more sugar we give them, the stronger they become.
How to prevent cavities in kids
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste (for young children, use a pea-sized amount).
- Floss once a day — yes, even for kids!
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks to special occasions.
- Avoid frequent snacking
- Schedule a dental check-up every 6 months.
- Consider fluoride treatments and dental sealants for extra protection.
At Dental Conceptz, we make children's visits fun and stress-free, so they leave with healthy teeth and big smiles. Remember — early prevention saves time, money, and teeth!