A new report by the New York Times finds an alarming rise in the number of preschoolers in need of dental care.

The report found a nationwide increase in the number of preschoolers with cavities.

Dentists say many parents are giving juice or other sweet drinks to toddlers at bedtime. Other factors include the use of bottled water over fluoridated tap water and the lack of awareness about the need for children to visit the dentist before their first birthday.

To help protect preschoolers, it's recommended parents brush the teeth of children 2-years-old or younger with a bit of fluoride toothpaste twice a day and avoid giving children starchy or sugary snacks before bedtime.