How to prevent and treat weak tooth enamel in children?

Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body and essential for the strength and resiliency of your child’s teeth. Sometimes this protective barrier does not develop in your child or it may be weak and ineffective. Dr. Yury Slepak, Board Certified Pediatric Dentist of Brooklyn Pediatric Dentistry, has some tips for strengthening your child’s tooth enamel.

What causes weak enamel?

There are many causes of weak enamel, but a few are:

• Development complications while the child is in utero
• Premature birth
• Poor diet through the age of five
• Certain medications, either taken by the mother while pregnant or by the child early in life
• Early childhood diseases
• Genetic disorders
• Trauma to the mouth or teeth

What can you do if your child has weak enamel?

The range of treatment options depends on the weakness of your child’s enamel. If no treatment is pursued, your child’s teeth will be very porous and may decay easily. Discuss all treatment options with your child’s pediatric dentist and see which ones work best for your child’s unique situations. Treatment options may be:

• Fluoride treatments
• Sealants
• Bonding
• Stainless Steel Crowns
• Extractions (if the tooth is not viable)

By practicing good oral hygiene and consulting with your pediatric dentist, your child will be able to manage this condition and maintain his or her oral health.