Anyone can be affected by cavities, but children are especially susceptible. Without proper treatment, a cavity can lead to more severe issues, such as an infection or tooth loss. Cavity treatment for kids can remove the source of tooth decay and prevent it from spreading.
Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry provides cavity treatment for kids in Reston and the surrounding area. We can restore your child’s oral health and help them maintain beautiful smiles. Call us today at 703-391-8800 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
A cavity occurs when plaque builds up and eats away at the tooth enamel. The combination of bacteria, food, and acid in the mouth creates a hole in the tooth. Children often develop cavities when they do not maintain proper oral hygiene routines. Improper brushing and flossing can cause plaque and debris to accumulate on and between teeth, leading to cavities.
One’s eating habits and diet can also increase a child’s susceptibility to cavities. Children who consume an excess of sugary and starchy foods are at a higher risk of developing tooth decay. Although further research is needed, some studies, such as a 2019 study in the International Journal of Oral Science, also suggest that there is a potential association between genetics and varied risks for cavities.
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It can be difficult for parents to recognize when their child has a cavity since they do not always cause painful symptoms. Some signs that a cavity may be present include:
If the early signs of a cavity are recognized, parents should contact our team as soon as possible. The earlier a child receives treatment for a cavity, the sooner we can fill it and prevent the decay from worsening. This quick response can help save the natural tooth.
Cavities are one of the most common childhood diseases in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC). After determining the extent of the tooth decay, our team will recommend the appropriate treatment. Fillings are a safe and commonly used cavity treatment for kids. Our team will remove the part of the tooth with tooth decay before placing the filling.
There are various types of filling materials for children, such as amalgam, composite, and gold. Amalgam fillings are durable silver fillings that are highly visible due to their dark color. Composite fillings are tooth-colored fillings made of a resin material, suitable for visible areas in the mouth. Gold fillings are the most durable fillings available, lasting from 10 to 15 years without corroding. We will discuss the available options for children during their consultation.
Fillings can restore a child’s primary or permanent teeth. First, we will numb the area around the decayed tooth to keep children comfortable during the procedure. Then, we will remove the decayed portion of the tooth before cleaning the site of bacteria and debris.
Once we finish preparing the cavity, we will place the filling and polish it. The time it takes to place a filling will vary depending on the cavity size, the number of fillings needed, and the chosen filling material. In general, the process takes about an hour or less.
The most effective way to prevent children from developing cavities, is to help them develop good oral hygiene habits. Parents with younger children who are unable to brush well by themselves should closely monitor their cleaning routines. Ensuring that a child is brushing and flossing with the proper technique and duration is crucial for keeping cavity-causing bacteria away.
While at-home care is important, routine dental check-ups are also essential. These appointments allow us to examine the mouth for dental issues, including cavities, and treat them before they worsen. Our team can also provide patients with helpful oral hygiene and preventative tips to prevent cavities.
How should I take care of my filling?
Taking good care of fillings can help them last longer. A crucial part of maintaining fillings is brushing twice each day and flossing. We also recommend that parents limit their children’s intake of sugary foods and hard, crunchy foods that can damage or break fillings.
What is tooth enamel and why is it important?
The tooth enamel is the protective outer layer of the tooth. Sugar, bacteria, and acid break down the enamel, resulting in a cavity. Once the enamel wears away, it does not grow back. Fluoride treatments can help strengthen the tooth enamel.
Why is it important to protect primary teeth from cavities?
Even though a child’s primary teeth will eventually fall out, it remains important to protect them from cavities. The primary teeth play an important role in chewing and speaking and holding a space open for developing permanent teeth. Losing primary teeth too early can result in improper development of the jaw and bones and lead to dental crowding issues.
How long will a filling last?
The longevity of a filling depends on the material chosen and the patient’s treatment of it. While fillings do not last forever, they can last longer with the proper care and maintenance. Kids should have regular dental check-ups so our team can check the status of their fillings and whether they need replacing.
Why is it important to save permanent teeth with cavity treatment?
It is important to save permanent teeth from cavities because nothing appears, feels, or works as well as the natural tooth. Treating a kid’s natural tooth and saving it allows them to maintain their mouth and jaw’s natural structure for continued normal usage. Our team provides cavity treatment for kids to save primary and permanent teeth.
By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with treatment options.
Do not hesitate to seek cavity treatment for your kid. Our team at Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry can protect your kid’s smile from tooth decay. Call us today at 703-391-8800 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.