Your Child’s First Dental Cavity

Dental cavities are very common in children because the tooth enamel in baby teeth is softer than in adult teeth. This means it’s easier for the plaque and bacteria in your child’s mouth to eat away at this vulnerable enamel and create dental cavities. If food debris and plaque aren’t routinely brushed and flossed away, your child’s risk of a dental cavity increases dramatically.

Symptoms of a dental cavity

The first sign of a dental cavity in your child will be a white spot on the tooth. This spot will eventually turn yellow or brown and will darken until a cavity forms. Once the dental cavity has formed and reaches the nerves of the tooth, your child will start to feel sensitivity and pain when brushing or exposing their teeth to hot, cold, or sugary foods.

What to do if you suspect your child has a dental cavity

If you think your child has a dental cavity, the first thing to do is make an appointment at Firestone Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics. Until your child’s appointment, make sure you’re brushing (with a fluoride toothpaste) and flossing your child’s teeth daily. If the white spots are caught early enough, we may be able to prevent the cavity from forming.

What to expect at your child’s dental appointment

If your child does indeed have a dental cavity, the dentist will first remove the decayed part of the tooth and thoroughly clean it. Once this has been done, a filling will be placed in the cavity to restore and protect your child’s tooth. You will then be provided with tips on how to prevent future dental cavities and tooth decay, helping your child to achieve and maintain a healthy and functional smile.

Cavities are one of the most common health problems in children, so please don’t feel ashamed if you believe your child has a dental cavity. For more information or to make an appointment for your child at our Firestone, Colorado children’s dental office, please contact Firestone Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics today.