Cavities are one of the most common dental problems among people of all ages, including children. If your child’s dentist informs you that they have a cavity in one of their baby teeth, you might at first be tempted to dismiss it as something minor and unimportant. After all, the tooth is going to fall out anyway. However, that type of thinking is unwise. All cavities, including those in baby teeth, deserve professional care. This blog post explains why.
The Importance of Treating Decay in Baby Teeth
Even though baby teeth are only around for a few years, they are still very important. Failure to properly address decay in one of these teeth could cause some significant consequences for your child:
- Pain and sensitivity. In addition to causing discomfort, such symptoms may negatively affect your child’s behavior.
- Difficulty eating. Your child might start to stay away from nutritious foods that are more challenging to chew, including fruits and veggies.
- Infections. Severe decay can lead to a serious infection, which may in turn cause systemic illness.
- Early loss of baby teeth. Advanced decay can make it necessary to remove one or more teeth, which might affect the development of incoming permanent dentition.
Treatment Options for Cavities in Baby Teeth
A filling is the standard way to treat mild to moderate spots of decay. The procedure is simple, and it can protect the tooth until it is ready to fall out naturally. Silver diamine fluoride may also be used in order to stop the decay from spreading.
If the decay is still in its very early stages, however, no filling might be necessary. Your child’s dentist may simply monitor it and encourage you to keep up with your child’s oral hygiene. If the tooth falls out within 6 – 12 months or so, the cavity may not have time to grow significantly worse.
In some cases, a cavity is large enough that a filling cannot properly treat it. A dentist might recommend a crown in such instances to protect the damaged tooth and restore its function.
Preventing Cavities in Baby Teeth
Of course, it would be better to prevent cavities in baby teeth rather than just treat them. To reduce your child’s risk, be sure to help them maintain a thorough oral hygiene routine. A pediatric dentist can give you tips to help you accomplish this. It is also wise to watch your child’s diet. Minimize their intake of sugary items, and if your child is very young, do not give them a bottle with milk or any sugary beverage in it (this can lead to a condition known as baby bottle tooth decay or bottle rot).
Cavities in baby teeth should not be taken lightly. Follow your pediatric dentist’s recommendations so your child can enjoy a strong and pain-free smile.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Cory is a skilled pediatric dentist who is proud to serve the Naperville area. Under his guidance, our practice offers many services for young smiles, including fillings, preventive care, and more. If you have concerns about your child’s dental health, we would be pleased to speak with you. Contact G&G Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics at 630-778-9500.
