Acid Reflux and Children’s Oral Health

When parents take their kids to the dentist, they usually expect their well-behaved child to come out at the end with a stamp of approval. However, sometimes parents discover their child's teeth are actually in a fairly serious state of decay, which may result in quite a bit of dental work and just as much money spent on it. If a child’s teeth are brushed every day and he or she eats relatively healthy foods, how might this have happened? While it may be surprising, the answer might be acid reflux. A University of California San Francisco study discovered children who have acid reflux have a six times better chance of suffering enamel damage than children without.

For children who take reflux medication, they may find their medication not working as well as they grow. Many go off medication around the age of one just as their teeth are starting to pop up. However, some older children could still have reflux problems. Luckily, there are a few steps parents can take in order to curtail the effects of acid reflux.

Visit the Dentist Often

For children who have histories of reflux, parents can make sure they have a dental visit once they have teeth. Pediatric dentists can easily identify reflux damage early and help parents create a plan for treatment. For severe reflux, children may require a visit to the dentist every three months rather than six months since prevention is far more manageable than waiting around for problems to arise in terms of damage.

Fluoridate

Just like adults, children require fluoride in their oral healthcare routines, but this is especially true regarding children who have acid reflux. With their teeth consistently under siege, they need the added protection that fluoride can provide. Whether it’s through toothpaste or fluoridated water, parents can easily ensure their child gets his or her fluoride for the day to help reflux. If parents use wells or water filters that remove fluoride from water, they can speak with their child’s pediatrician or dentist about a prescription for fluoride pills or liquid fluoride.

Watch the Diet

When it comes to children who have acid reflux, avoiding sugary snacks and drinks is not enough. If parents wish to protect their child's teeth, they need to cut down the acid flow to the child’s mouth. It’s best to avoid common reflux catalyst foods like tomatoes or similar acidic fruits. Parents can also observe their child’s snacking schedule, avoiding foods before bedtime or nap time. Finally, parents can talk to their child’s pediatrician to ensure they are doing whatever they can to control the acid reflux.

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