What Parents Should Know About Their Child’s First Dental Cavity

Dental cavities are very common in children, adolescents, and even babies. This is because baby tooth enamel is softer and more vulnerable than adult teeth, making it easier for bacteria and acids to weaken it and cause dental cavities. If food debris and plaque are not properly and regularly flossed and brushed from your child’s teeth, they have an increased risk of developing a cavity.

If you believe your child has a dental cavity, there are a few things you should know in order to care for it properly.

Symptoms of a Dental Cavity in Children

The first symptoms of a dental cavity may be painless. They will first develop a white spot on the tooth. If left untreated, this spot will change to yellow or brown and will darken until it turns into a deeper dental cavity. Once the cavity reaches the nerves of the tooth, your child will feel pain and sensitivity when brushing or eating.

What to Do in the Event of a Dental Cavity

If you suspect a dental cavity, it’s important to take your child to his or her pediatric dentist as soon as possible. Until the appointment, make sure you’re brushing your child’s teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day. Decay can still be advancing even if your child isn’t in pain. The earlier a dental cavity is detected and treated, the better the outcome.

What to Expect at the Pediatric Dentist’s Office

If your child is indeed found to have a cavity, the dentist will remove the decayed part of the tooth and add a filling to restore the tooth. Once the cavity has been treated, the child and parent will be educated on how to prevent further dental cavities from forming, allowing your child to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.

Dental cavities are the most common disease among children, but also the most preventable. Make sure you’re teaching your child good oral hygiene habits, including brushing at least twice a day, flossing every day, and visiting the dentist every six months for a dental cleaning and a checkup.

If you’re concerned about gum disease or to make an appointment for your gum health, please contact Coastal Periodontics located in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.