Protect against cavities in children with these easy-to-follow instructions from our dental team. As parents, we must be aware of the signs and symptoms of cavities in our children. Cavities are common in children but are also very easy to miss if we are not paying attention. Protecting against cavities means being able to spot tooth decay early.
Visible Tooth Symptoms
If cavities are left untreated, your child may experience pain or sensitivity when eating and drinking hot and cold foods and beverages. There may also be swelling and redness around the affected area, bad breath or a sour taste in the mouth. If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, they must see their dentist immediately. Protect against cavities by looking for the following:
- White spots on the surface of teeth
- Holes or pits in teeth, including between teeth
- Darkened staining on the surface of the tooth
- Tooth discoloration that changes in hue or shade
- Enamel erosion, which will cause your tooth to feel rough
Tooth Discomfort Symptoms
Cavities can be hard to spot for parents, but some key symptoms can point to a possible cavity. If your child is experiencing a toothache or sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks, it could indicate a cavity. Toothaches that persist for several days can also signal the presence of a cavity. Additionally, if your child is experiencing pain when eating or drinking sweet foods or drinks, it could also result from a cavity. It’s important to remember that cavities can develop quickly in children, so if you notice any of these symptoms, contact your pediatric dentist immediately. Early detection and treatment is the best way to ensure the health and longevity of your child’s teeth.
Cavities Are Easy to Miss
Cavities can be difficult to detect because they usually don’t cause pain or discomfort in the early stages. Even if you brush and floss your teeth regularly, it can be easy to miss the signs of cavities. Some symptoms may include the following:
- Visible dark spots on the surface of the tooth
- Teeth that feel rough or bumpy
- Visible holes or pits in the teeth
- Pain when biting down
If you are unsure whether your child has a cavity, it is important to take them to the dentist for an evaluation. The dentist can x-ray the mouth and check for signs of decay. If they find a cavity, they recommend the best treatment option to restore the tooth to its health.
Fixing Cavities in Kids
Cavities in baby teeth can be as painful and detrimental to oral health as cavities in adult teeth, so getting them filled promptly is essential. Fortunately, most dental treatments for kids are similar to those for adults. Your dentist will first clean out the decayed area of the tooth, then fill it with either a white composite or metal filling. If the cavity is particularly deep, your dentist may recommend that you have a crown put on the tooth instead.
Crowns can be made from gold, silver, stainless steel, or porcelain, depending on the size and location of the cavity and the preference of both you and your dentist. It’s important to fix cavities in kids quickly because these primary teeth help guide the permanent teeth into place when they come in. See a dentist if your child has a cavity as soon as possible. A pediatric dentist can provide your child with the best care possible and ensure their teeth remain healthy for years.
Protect Against Cavities With The Help of a Pediatric Dentist
Pediatric dentistry is a specialized field that focuses on the oral health of infants, children, and teenagers. Parents must understand the importance of pediatric dentistry to ensure their children receive the best care for their teeth and mouths. A pediatric dentist is specially trained and certified to care for children’s oral health. They have a unique understanding of the needs of children and how to provide the highest level of care to meet those needs. They are also skilled at calming and reassuring children who may be anxious or scared.
Protect Against Cavities & Schedule a Dental Appointment
As with adults, your child needs to get their teeth cleaned and a dental checkup every six months. Kids should start going to the dentist soon after their first tooth erupts or around their first birthday, whichever happens first.
