The most common dental issue in children is cavities. These can occur very early after a child’s teeth come in. It may be tempting to ignore it if they lose that tooth, but it should never be overlooked. When a child has a cavity, action should be taken immediately.
The Cause of Cavities in Kids
Any pediactric dentist will tell a parent that cavities occur when there is a buildup of a sticky substance over the teeth, known as plaque. The plaque will eat a tooth’s enamel which causes the holes known as cavities. When teeth are brushed and flossed regularly, the plaque does not have a chance to build up, and therefore cavities do not form.
The Signs of Cavities in Kids
A cavity does not always cause pain in a child’s mouth, so it is essential to recognize the different signs of a cavity in a child. It can be challenging to see, but if the child seems fussy, cries more often, shows sensitivity to cold foods or drinks, or avoids food altogether, they may have a cavity. A parent may also notice white or dark spots on a tooth or a swelling of their mouth that are also indicators of a cavity. As soon as there is a chance of a cavity, the child’s dentist should be contacted immediately to make an appointment.
The Treatment of Cavities in Kids
Once it is confirmed there is a cavity in a child’s tooth, next is treatment. A common way to treat a cavity is known as a dental filling. When a dentist performs a filling, they remove tooth decay and then fill the hole with a white composite or a metal material that preserves the tooth. These can be done on permanent as well as baby teeth. If the tooth decay is more severe, the dentist may suggest putting a crown on the tooth or possibly extracting the tooth altogether.
The Prevention of Cavities in Kids
Simply put, the best way to prevent cavities in children is by practicing good oral hygiene. This may be proven to be easier said than done, but it is important to monitor a child’s habits when they brush and floss to ensure they are using the proper techniques while caring for their oral health. It would also be a good idea to avoid overly sugary foods such as cake, cookies, ice cream, and candy.
Cavities in children are a common dental issue, but understanding the causes and signs will ultimately aid in prevention.
