At Playtime Pediatric Dental Clinic in Vancouver and South Surrey, we’re committed to ensuring your child’s dental health. One important aspect of our work is educating parents about dental issues, including the often-misunderstood topic of smooth surface cavities.
What Are Smooth Surface Cavities?
Smooth surface cavities are a common type of dental decay that occurs on the flat, smooth sides of teeth. Unlike other cavities that often form in the grooves and crevices of molars, smooth surface cavities develop on the visible, flat surfaces. They can be challenging to spot with the naked eye, making regular dental check-ups crucial. Click here to book a dental appointment.
The Importance of Early Detection
Detecting cavities on smooth surfaces early is key to preventing more extensive dental issues down the road. Since these cavities often lack the telltale signs of pain or discomfort, they can go unnoticed for a long time. This is where our team’s expertise in early cavity detection comes into play.
Prevention through Good Oral Habits
Our approach goes beyond treatment; we focus on establishing excellent oral care habits from a young age. Teaching your child to brush and floss properly and encouraging regular dental check-ups are vital steps in preventing smooth surface cavities and other dental problems. Click here to learn how to detect cavities early.
Spotting Smooth Surface Cavities
So, how can you spot a smooth surface cavity? Look out for:
- Discoloration: Keep an eye on any white, brown, or black spots on the smooth surfaces of your child’s teeth.
- Sensitivity: If your child experiences sensitivity to hot or cold foods, it may indicate the presence of a cavity.
- Texture Changes: Sometimes, you might feel a slight roughness on the tooth’s surface when running your tongue over it.
Take Action:
Schedule a Dental Check-Up If you suspect your child may have a smooth surface cavity or notice any of the signs mentioned above, don’t hesitate to schedule a dental check-up with us. Our experienced and compassionate team will ensure a comfortable experience for your child while addressing any dental concerns.
Book an 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. Click here to book a dental appointment.