As a parent, you want your child to be happy and comfortable. Part of that is scheduling pediatric dental care to ensure they don’t develop cavities. Most people know about cavities, but some debate exists concerning how to treat them when they occur in children and whether cavities in baby teeth affect permanent teeth.
The short answer is that, although baby teeth fall out, they need the same care as permanent teeth. Understanding cavities is the first step to keeping up with your child’s dental health.
Causes, Prevention and Treatment of Baby Teeth Cavities
Cavities, or caries, refer to holes in the teeth. Left untreated, these holes grow over time until the tooth needs to be removed. They can cause discomfort in kids, which any parent wants to avoid. Luckily, there are ways to prevent cavities.
What Causes Cavities in Baby Teeth?
Tooth decay, which can result from a poor diet and lack of oral hygiene, causes cavities in baby teeth. Children have a thinner layer of protective enamel on their teeth than adults, so their teeth are more vulnerable to this decay.
How to Prevent Cavities in Kids
Teaching your kids about good oral hygiene is the most effective way to prevent cavities. Providing a diet low in added sugar and full of healthy foods is also essential. Encourage your child to brush and floss twice daily and stay on top of their dental checkups — book one with a pediatric dentist every six months to be safe.
Treatment Options for Cavities on Baby Teeth
Various baby teeth cavity treatments exist to relieve the symptoms of this decay and ensure a child’s permanent teeth can develop naturally. In most cases, fillings are the best way to treat cavities. A dental crown or tooth extraction might be necessary if the damage is more severe.
Do Kids Really Need Cavities Filled in Their Baby Teeth?
Yes! Preventing and treating cavities is essential for your child’s adult teeth to be healthy. Filling cavities in baby teeth prevents them from rotting or needing extraction early, avoiding issues with the healthy development of adult teeth.
Most dentists will treat cavities with fillings instead of extractions because baby teeth act as placeholders for permanent teeth as your child’s jaw develops. However, every case is different, so consult your pediatric dentist for the best treatment options.
Let Fox Kids Dentistry & Orthodontics Help You Care for Your Child’s Teeth
Visiting the dentist can be challenging for children and parents. Our pediatric dentists have additional training to work with children and make the experience as comfortable as possible. If you’re worried about cavities, schedule an appointment with us today and experience our caring family environment firsthand.