If your child has deep grooves in the molars, then your son or daughter's pediatric dentist may be concerned about cavities forming in the back teeth. This is an issue that can cause serious decay that may reduce the overall structural integrity of the teeth. The molars may then be unable to withstand a great deal of pressure and stress. Sealants can help to fill in some of the grooves. There are other things that your child can do at home to keep the molar groove cavities at bay. Keep reading to learn about a few of these things.

Fluoride Rinses

If your child uses a fluoride toothpaste, then this is one thing that can keep molar cavities at bay. Using a fluoride rinse after brushing with the paste is also a good idea. Oral fluoride rinses cover the teeth completely with fluoride. In particular, the mineral is able to get into every small corner and groove of your teeth. The fluoride then sticks to the enamel and penetrates it. The mineral then strengthens the stringy bonds that make up your enamel. In the process, the fluoride rebuilds enamel in areas where it has become weak. 

Deep molar grooves are likely to develop weak enamel as food particles and plaque build in the tooth divots. As the enamel weakens, cavities become more and more likely. The fluoride keeps the weakened enamel from during into decay by strengthening it before bacteria can do any more damage. 

Fluoride works best if it has the opportunity to soak into the teeth overnight. Prompt your child to use the rinse in the evening right after brushing the teeth. You also want to make sure that you purchase a fluoride rinse from your local pharmacy or home store. You do not want a rinse that contains fluoride. These products are typically mouthwashes that only contain a small amount of the mineral. 

Crunchy Foods

Brushing the teeth after each meal is a good habit for your child to develop. However, kids rarely brush their teeth after lunch, especially when they are at school. Thankfully, brushing is not the only way to force food bits out of the grooves in the molars before they turn into decay. Crunch and hard foods can do this pretty easily. In particular, raw vegetables can scrub the molars and force away food. Carrots, celery, bell peppers, and broccoli, and cauliflower are a few good foods to include in your child's lunch.

Ask your child to eat the crunchy vegetable last to clean the teeth. Also, provide some water so the mouth can be rinsed out as they finish lunch. For more information, contact a local dentist, such as Brit E. Bowers, DDS.

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