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7. Why does my child have cavities even though we brush?

What Happens If Your Child Has a Cavity

kid showing teeth with cavity hurting mouth

You’re definitely not alone — cavities can still happen even when families are doing their best to brush every day.

A few common reasons include:

-Hidden sugars in snacks, drinks, juice, and even some “healthy” foods
-Genetics and enamel strength, which can make some kids more cavity-prone
-Brushing technique — little hands often miss hard-to-reach spots
-Frequent snacking or sipping throughout the day, which keeps sugar on teeth longer
-Bedtime milk or juice, especially if teeth aren’t brushed afterward

The good news is — cavities don’t mean you’ve done anything wrong. Every child’s mouth is different. During visits, we can help fine-tune brushing habits, talk about diet choices, and recommend things like fluoride treatments or sealants to give your child extra protection.

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