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Tooth Decay In Children: Causes, Signs and Treatment
Tooth decay is the damage caused to the tooth by germs that produce acid in our mouth and attack the teeth. This can result in a hole in the tooth called cavity. The cavity causes pain, infection and tooth loss.
What Causes Tooth Decay in Kids?
When we eat food, some of the food particles get stuck in the teeth creating a sticky layer called ‘plaque’. This plaque has bacteria that feed on the sugar in the food we eat. Once the bacteria start feeding, it produces acids. These acids attack the teeth causing damage to the enamel which results in tooth decay. Some of the causes of tooth decay are:
Food Habits: Tooth decay in children is caused due to the changing food habits. Excess sugar content in our children’s food affects their teeth. Kids usually like sweets, chocolates, ice creams and other sugar enriched foods making them susceptible to tooth decay.
Drinks: The intake of juices, soft drinks, sports drinks and milk can cause cavities as well. The kids who drink these beverages frequently are prone to infections as their teeth will get coated with these drinks. The bacteria settle in pits and grooves of the teeth and produces acids to damage the teeth resulting in cavities.
Medical Conditions: Some medical conditions may increase the risk of cavities too. If your child is suffering from chronic allergies, he or she may opt for mouth breathing, which interferes with the flow of saliva. When the flow of saliva decreases, the chances of cavities will increase.
Bedtime Feeding: When infants are given milk bottles at night time filled with milk, juice and other sugar-containing liquids, these liquids sit on their teeth for hours and feed the bacteria. This damage to teeth is called baby tooth decay. Same can happen to the toddlers when they drink from a sippy cup filled with these liquids. Tooth decay in toddlers is a common health concern and needs efficient treatment.
Deficiency of Fluoride: Fluoride is a natural mineral which helps in avoiding cavities and reverse the effect of tooth damage in the initial stage. This mineral is used in public water supplies, toothpaste and mouth rinse.
Signs of Tooth Decay
Signs of tooth decay are not experienced in the early stage. It shows its signs when a cavity is developed. The signs are
A toothache which occurs while eating or biting food items
Sensitivity in teeth
Spontaneous pain without any reason
Holes in teeth
Change in colour of the teeth
Bad breath
Swelling of the gums
If your kid is suffering from a toothache, consult a dentist immediately. If you don’t take any treatment, the pain will subside, but the decay won’t stop. If you do not read the early signs of baby bottle tooth decay, then the cavity will increase, and the tooth will die.
Treatments for Tooth Decay
The treatment procedures for tooth decay depend upon the condition of the tooth. Frequent check-ups can diagnose the problem in the early stage prevent severe damage. Many treatment options are available such as:
Fluoride Treatment: Fluoride treatment helps in restoring the enamel damage. Enamel damage is the initial stage of tooth decay as you can see spots on the teeth during this stage. The fluoride gel or varnish is used to cover the spots and to give the required minerals for the teeth. Fluoride toothpaste will be prescribed to repair the tooth and reverse the effect of the decay.
Fillings: Fillings are used to fill the cavities which have crossed the first stage. The damaged portion is removed and is filled with amalgam or ceramic resin. These are made of many materials like tooth colour composite resins, dental or porcelain amalgam.
Crowns: Crowns are used for the majorly damaged teeth. This is a custom fitted covering that restores the tooth’s natural cover. In this procedure, the dentist drills and removes the decayed part and fills it with medicated fillings. Then to prepare the crowns, the measurement is taken by using clay or porcelain. These crowns are placed on the teeth to protect from further damage.
Root Canals: The tooth decay enters into the inner layer of the tooth called pulp. Once the pulp damaged, the tooth may have to be removed. To stop that, you can go for root canal treatment. In this procedure, the infected part is removed, and medicated fillings are used to fill in the gap. The dentist will repeat the filling procedure for 2-3 sittings to stop the recurrence of infection. After that, the crowning procedure can be opted for, as the strength of the tooth will be less and to protect that tooth there is a need to use the crown.
Teeth Extraction: If the tooth is damaged a lot and can’t be restored due to the infection, it must be extracted. It may lead to further damage to other teeth if you try to do something by yourself. You can go for an implant or bridge to fill the gap after the tooth extraction.
How to Prevent Child Tooth Decay?
Prevention of tooth decay in children can be done by following these methods suggested below
Regular brushing can reduce the generation of plaque and germs in the mouth, which in turn reduces the risk of cavities. Habituate your kid to brush for two times in a day, in the morning and at bedtime.
Infant’s mouth should be cleaned by wiping it with a clean and smooth cloth. Once they start developing teeth, brush his or her teeth with soft baby toothbrush mildly using fluoride toothpaste.
Don’t let your child or baby sleep with a bottle or food in their mouth. This will lead to exposure of teeth to sugars, resulting in infection, choking and tooth decay.
Don’t give liquids for long periods to your child to drink in a sippy cup or bottle. Instead of sugary drinks, give them water to drink.
Use fluoridated water to protect your child's teeth from infection. Drinking water contains this mineral naturally. If you are using non-fluoridated water, consult your dentist to get a supplement of fluoride.
Habituate your child to drink liquids from a cup or glass as early as possible after completing one year of age. Taking liquids from a cup or glass will decrease the risk of cavities.
Keep control of the sugary foods your child eats regularly. Foods like chips, candies, jellies, cookies, fruit rolls, etc. contain sugars, and these foods are a threat if consumed in excess.
Stop sharing spoons with your child. Infants don’t have any bacteria in their mouth from birth. By sharing spoons while checking the taste of food, you inadvertently transfer bacteria to your kid’s mouth.
Maintain your oral health which will lead to fewer chances of transfer of infections and breeding of bacteria.
Consult your dentist and allow them to check your child’s teeth condition when your child is at the age of one year. This will reduce the risk of any infections to the primary teeth.
Does Making Changes in My Child's Diet Help in Preventing Tooth Decay?
Some of the dietary changes that can be made include:
Give fruits and vegetables to your child instead of carbohydrate-rich foods. Pears, melons, celery, and cucumbers are best to give as they are rich in fibre and low on sugars. Banana and raisins contain sugars, so use them in a limited manner.
Cheese can be added to the diet plan of your child as it helps in the production of saliva. It can be given with the lunch items.
Skip sticky and chewy foods as they are likely to spread bacteria in the mouth. If your kid eats these foods, brush their teeth immediately after eating.
Tips for Oral Hygiene
For healthy teeth, here are simple tips for oral hygiene.
Regular Brushing
Selecting a proper brush
Regular flossing
Using mouthwash
Proper cleaning of brush
Changing your toothbrush after three months
Using a tongue scraper to keep your tongue clean
Stop frequent snacking
Avoiding sharing of utensils and cutlery with other children
Avoiding food with high sugar content
Avoiding late night snacking after they have brushed their teeth
Taking your child to the dentist every three months if possible
Natural Remedies
Some of the remedies used to tackle tooth decay include:
Garlic:
It helps fight off bacteria in the mouth and simultaneously increases the strength of the gums.
Salt:
Through the power of osmosis, salt can suck out the life of bacteria.
Turmeric:
Its anti-inflammatory properties help to alleviate the pain caused by cavities.
If you are able to find the tooth infection in early stage and get it treated in time, your child’s teeth can be saved from damage and suffering. There are many treatments available out there due to the latest technology.
Also Read: Bad Breath in Kids Read more
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jugal kishore mehta
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Pregancy vs Post-Pregnacy changes in my Day-to-Day life
During Pregnancy, I used to think that this is the hardest time. Things will be easier once the baby pops out. Only being unware of the fact that hardest time was yet to come. I was in retrospect one day and then I noticed the changes in my Day-to-Day life. Here are some of them:
1. Sleep-wake Cycle
During Pregnancy: Could sleep anytime and woke up anytime and nobody minded or bothered.
Now: Can't sleep even at night without being woken up multiple times. Have to wake up super early in the morning to finish personal chores as won't be able to even pee in peace once he wakes up.
2. Dressing up
During Pregnancy: Could wear anything that fits with matching accessory
Now: Have to wear breastfeeding friendly clothes with minimum or no accessory. Clothes shouldn't have embroidery or work that can hurt him. Can't wear fancy necklaces as either he is gonna get hurt or the necklace.
3. Eating habits
During Pregnancy: Could eat almost anything.
Now: Have to eat which helps in milk production. Avoid food that may harm the baby - spices, ice-creams, curd etc.
4. Going out
During Pregnancy: Could go out anytime I felt like. Late night movies or dinner date or shopping with friends, you name it and I am there (mostly).
Now: Going out is a task. Even if I want to go out, baby should be fed and slept. Diaper bag should packed. Have to be back before his sleeping time else he becomes super cranky and I have a sleepless night. Impromtu plans are a thing of past.
5. Binge-watching
During Pregnancy: Could binge watch an entire season overnight.
Now: Takes 4 hours to watch a 1 hour episode
6. The Baby
During Pregnancy: Could feel the baby movements and see the blur images in ultrasound
Now: Can hold the baby in my arms, in flesh and blood. See him grow everyday. Enjoy his smiles and expressions. Play with him. Hug him & kiss him and love him. And the list goes on...
Being a mother might keeps me on my toes all the time but when I look at him, its all worth it. Read more
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Date and Fig Balls
These cute looking balls are a powerhouse of energy and nutrients. We have used black dates for making these. Since, this variety of dates is quite sweet, you do not need to add any additional sugar. If you have all the ingredients in place, it will take less than 10 minutes to create these beauties.
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
8 People
10-15 Minutes
0 Minutes
Ingredients
1 cup black dates, seeds removed and chopped.
¼ cup chopped figs
¼ cup almonds
For Coating
1 tbsp poppy seeds
2 tsp cocoa powder
Method
Step 1
Churn the almonds in a mixer to a coarse powder. Add it into a bowl.
Step 2
Churn the figs into chunky bits. Since, black dates are very soft, chopping is enough. Add all these three things in a bowl and mix together.
Step 3
Grease your hands with ghee and shape small balls of the mixture.
Step 4
You can leave them as it is or roll a few in poppy seeds or cocoa powder for adding variety. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Calories
129 Kcal
Proteins
2.2 g
Fat
2.1 g
Carbohydrates
28.6 g
Cholesterol
0 mg
Sodium
1 mg
Potassium
83 mg
Tip -You can add any other nuts of choice – walnuts, cashews or pistachios. Read more
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Copy of – 10 Home Remedies for Skin Allergy – Natural Alternatives to Relieve Itching and Rashes
Rashes on the skin, hives, and itchy patches flaking or swelling- these are common symptoms of an allergic reaction. A skin allergy is something everybody would have experienced. Since the skin is the first thing that comes in contact with the outside world, the exposure to allergens begins here and so do the allergies. What steps can you take to remedy a skin allergy? Read on to know more about what skin allergy is, the types of skin allergies, and effective, natural home remedies to treat the allergies.
What is Skin Allergy?
A skin allergy is normally a reaction to an invading irritant or allergen- allergy-causing substance.
When the skin senses a foreign substance that could be potentially harmful, the body produces an immune response to it which is characterised by many of the symptoms of allergies such as rashes or hives. Some allergies also have underlying causes that are different from allergens; the results, however, are mostly similar. An allergic reaction can be triggered by many substances such as
Pollen, plants such as poison ivy
Insect bites
Foods
Metals used in jewellery, nickel
Cosmetics, soaps, shampoos
Sprays, cleaning products, fragrances
The latex used in certain clothing, condoms, gloves and balloons
The most common signs and symptoms of skin allergies include:
Redness
Itchiness
Dry and flaky skin
Infection on wounded areas
Small fluid-filled blisters
Some of the common types of skin allergy are:
Contact Dermatitis: This type of allergy is one that almost everybody would have experienced once in their lifetime. Rashes are triggered by an allergen coming in contact with the skin.
Diaper Rash: Common in babies and adults who wear soiled diapers for a long time. It is also a form of contact dermatitis.
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): A condition that turns the skin red and itchy. Eczema or atopic dermatitis is more prevalent in children than adults and can be triggered by many factors such as harsh soaps, allergens, change in weather, etc.
Seborrheic Dermatitis: More commonly known as dandruff, it is a condition that affects the scalp and face making the skin dry and flaky.
Heat Rash: A type of allergy caused by the blockage of sweat ducts during hot and humid weather conditions.
Hives: A sudden onset of itchy bumps that are red and go away on their own in a few hours.
Psoriasis: It is a scaly and bumpy eruption on the skin that is seen on elbows, knees and the scalp.
Effective Home Remedies to Treat Skin Allergies Naturally
Most types of skin allergies produce symptoms that can be treated with one of these natural cures. Depending on the underlying condition, some would work better than the others.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a wonder cure for many ailments. It has plenty of acetic acid which has strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. These two combined can help treat rashes involved in many types of skin allergies.
What You Need
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
1 cup of warm water
Cotton pads
What to Do
Mix one cup of warm water with a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.
Stir well and soak up some solution with a cotton ball.
Dab the solution on the affected area and let it dry.
Wash it after 15 to 20 minutes with clean water.
Repeat twice a day until it heals.
2. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel is used in many natural healing preparations because of its medicinal and anti-inflammatory properties. It speeds up the recovery process and offers soothing relief, making it one of the best remedies for skin allergies on the body.
What You Need
Aloe vera gel
What to Do
Extract one teaspoon of the gel from the leaf or scoop one teaspoon of gel from a purchased aloe vera product.
Spread the aloe vera gel directly on the area affected by the allergy.
Let it stay on for about 30 minutes before washing.
Apply this remedy thrice a day for a few days.
3. Baking Soda
Baking soda is alkaline and acts on the skin to restore the pH value of the affected area. This is useful in treating certain kinds of rashes to speed up its healing time.
What You Need
1 teaspoon of baking soda
1 cup of water
Mixing cup
What to Do
Mix a fairly thick paste of water and baking soda by adding the required amount of ingredients and mixing them well in a cup.
Spread the baking soda paste on the affected area of the skin.
Let it stay for about 10 minutes before washing it off.
Do it several times a day for relief from irritation.
4. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is one of the safest home remedies for skin allergies in babies and children. It has moisturising properties, thanks to its medium-chain fatty acids which are helpful for dry, scaly skin allergies. It also has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties which make it a wonderful remedy for many skin conditions.
What You Need
Virgin coconut oil
What to Do
Warm a teaspoon of virgin coconut oil and apply it over the affected area.
Leave it in place for about 30 minutes.
Wash it with warm water and pat the skin dry.
Repeat this 3 to 4 times a day until the rash heals.
5. Peppermint Oil
The presence of menthol in peppermint oil exhibits anti-inflammatory properties which can give immediate relief when applied over a painful or itchy rash.
What You Need
5 to 8 drops of peppermint oil
1 teaspoon of carrier oil such as olive, coconut or jojoba oil
What to Do
Mix several drops of the peppermint oil with a teaspoon of the carrier oil.
Apply the mix directly over the affected area.
Leave it on the skin for 40 to 60 minutes before washing it off.
Repeat the procedure 3 to 4 times every day.
6. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is widely used to naturally treat many skin conditions, thanks to its medicinal properties. The oil is anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial in nature which gives immediate relief from a rash and prevents additional infections.
What You Need
6-7 drops tea tree oil
1 teaspoon of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil
What to Do
Add the tea tree oil to a teaspoon of carrier oil and mix well.
Apply the mixture directly over the affected area on the skin.
Let it stay for 45 to 60 minutes before washing it off.
Repeat this routine thrice or four times a day for relief.
7. Tulsi (Holy Basil)
The medicinal properties of tulsi have long been known in India. It exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties that can effectively protect the skin from infections. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and itchiness, making it effective in getting rid of skin allergies naturally.
What You Need
A bunch of tulsi leaves
Blender
What to Do
Pick a handful of tulsi leaves and wash them thoroughly.
Grind the leaves in a blender until the consistency is fine.
Apply the paste over the affected area.
Leave it on the allergy-affected region for about 30 minutes before washing it off.
Repeat the routine few times a day for relief.
8. Neem
Neem is another popular herb used extensively in India for its medicinal properties. It can alleviate redness, swelling and itching due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Neem is also a natural antihistamine, which is why it is used in home remedies for skin allergies on the face.
What You Need
A handful of neem leaves, preferably fresh
Blender
What to Do
Grind the neem leaves in a blender until the paste has a fine consistency.
Apply the paste over the affected area and leave it on for 30 minutes.
Wash the paste clean and repeat it 3-4 times a day until you see improvement.
9. Petroleum Jelly
Dryness can aggravate many types of skin rashes; this is where petroleum jelly acts as one of the effective home remedies for skin allergy in winter. Petroleum jelly covers the affected area to shield it from microbes and keeps it moisturised hence speeding up the healing process.
What You Need
A bottle of petroleum jelly
What to Do
Apply a thin film of the jelly on the affected area.
Leave it on throughout the day and reapply as necessary.
10. Ginger
Ginger possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties which work well in treating different types of skin allergies.
What You Need
A slice of ginger
A cup of warm water
Cotton pads
What to Do
Grate the slice of ginger and add it to a cup of water.
Boil the mix in a saucepan and allow it to simmer for 5 minutes.
Strain the ginger liquid and allow it to cool.
Apply the liquid with a cotton ball on the affected area.
Wash it off after 30 minutes and repeat it 3-4 times a day.
Skin allergies can be particularly annoying to deal with. They can be caused by various allergens like metals, plants, insect bites, pet hair, and food. The remedies listed above can offer relief from pain and irritation as the condition resolves over time.
Also Read:
DIY Peel Off Face Masks for Healthy and Clear Skin
Effective Natural Remedies to Remove Blackheads
How to Get Rid of Dark Spots on Face
Read more
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Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
5 hours ago
Q. Hlo
I have tailbone pain in the 5th month of pregnancy.. What is the reason for it? What should I do?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. N simple pressure no problem. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
3 hours ago
Q. Hi, my AFI is 6.5...doctor suggested for induction...is it ok or shall I ask to wait for 2 weeks
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. definitely the levels are very less there is need to take proper decision vif there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. how long should I give d3 syrup for babies
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. you can give up to 6 months to one year also ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. I got skin tags during pregnancy, what should I do for that..any cream recommendation...
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
3 hours ago
A. wait a year. see a lot of brands are available to allure you. you should get prescription n adhere to products manuals. avoid too expensive and see to good brands with guarantee ok. for skin lesions avoid rough handling. try to put only medicated ointment. keep up with the doctor who can see and advise. don't miss on any medicine for best results.
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. what is the purpose of giving d3 syrup for babies
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. you have to continue vitamin d3 supplement till you are not able to take the child in sunlight for at least 10 minutes daily.
before 1 year of age : if you are giving 400 units you have to give 1ml everyday and if you're giving 800 units you have to give 0.5 ml everyday.
the thing is that you have to keep the child in sunlight for at least 10 to 15 minutes daily between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for proper vitamin d exposure.
so if you are able to take the child in sunlight you can stop vitamin d supplement.
after 1 year of age vit d drops dosage is 0.7ml once a day from 800units vitamin d drops.
vitamin D is required for many metabolic processes in the child as well as for the growth and development of the bones and development of the tooth
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. #asktheexperts first cry
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. you can always ask questions related to the health of child and mother in this section and it cand be either related to diet or food or vaccination or any type of medicine goingd on and given by your doctor.
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