There isn't really one generic term for such a condition, but several, although it is actually referred to as enamel hyperplasia.
Basically, the enamel is a bit weaker than it should be. He also says that it is quite common in families whose primary water source is from a well, which means it is not usually fluoridated. There are certainly genetic disorders and tendencies that cause a predisposition to cavities, and there are all different degrees of resistance to cavities he says.
Although there isn't a definitive test that can be done to confirm the condition one way or another, the diagnosis seemed to immediately point towards to genetics. Noramlly there is a family history for the same in either parents.
Inherited bad teeth occur only in a very small percentage of the U.S. population.
Usually, dietary and oral hygiene habits play a more important role in the number of decayed teeth a child may have. This condition normally would only increases the chance of the teeth becoming decayed and do not cause cavities. Only sugar causes cavities.
Although genetics may play a role in conditions like "soft" teeth, here are some ways that you can help keep the number of cavities your children get to a minimum:
* Watch the Sugar -- Not only are candy bars, cookies and soda loaded with sugars, but many seemingly healthier products like chocolate-covered granola bars and yogurt also contain lots of the sweet stuff as well. Read the labels and know what your child is eating at home and school.
* Brush After Every Meal -- Even when brushing isn't possible (like after school lunch), remind your child to rinse with water after he or she eats. This will help keep the sugars -- as well as the bacteria that eats it and causes decay -- from forming.
* Floss Every Day -- Most dentist advise that flossing begin as soon as your child has two adjacent teeth.
* Visit the Dentist Regularly -- The first visit should be around your child's fourth birthday. That way, problems can be spotted early and treatments can begin before things get too out of control. Subsequent visits are usually set at six-month intervals, unless there is a problem that requires a more frequent examination.
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Treatment Options
So, what if your children fall into that small percentage who will almost certainly get a mouthful of cavities despite your best efforts?
"FLUORIDE SUPPLEMENTATION is the key - Daily drops to help prevent more cavities from forming. "There are also fluoride rinses, but they don't seem to be as effective and they don't do much to help protect the adult teeth growing beneath the gums," she says.
Of course, avoiding sugars and brushing immediately after eating anything sweet also help.
Basically, in addition to the brushing, rinsing and flossing, we have to be a bit more vigilant with them,becoming more pro-active about their dental health helps.
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Dr. Gupta
