How to Tell If Your Child Has Soft Tooth Enamel

Soft tooth enamel, also known as enamel hyperplasia, is a condition in which the enamel covering the teeth is not as strong as it should be. When this condition occurs in children, it is generally a result of two possible causes. The first is genetics, and the second is poor diet and dental hygiene; the first is not preventable, while the second is. While only a dentist can diagnose soft tooth enamel, there are some clues parents can look for.

Instructions

• 1

  Look at your family history. If either of the child's parents or other close relatives have had a lot of trouble with cavities and other tooth problems, there may be a genetic component resulting in soft tooth enamel.

• 2

  Watch for signs of cavities. If your child complains of toothaches, have it checked out by a dentist. Children with soft enamel develop cavities much more easily; many cavities at a young age is a red flag.

• 3

  Keep an eye on your child's diet. Children who eat a lot of sugar and drink soda are at a higher risk of weakening the tooth enamel.

• 4

  Check your water. If you do not obtain your water from a municipal source, your child may be missing out on an important key to strong teeth: fluoride. Well water and bottled water may not contain this necessary mineral.

• 5

  See your dentist. Regular checkups ensure that soft tooth enamel, if it is present, is caught as early as possible.