What Can I Do if My Child Has CavitiesReston, VA

A Cavity-Prevention Diet

Unfortunately, sugar is the most common cause of cavities. Bacteria in the mouth feed off of sugar and carbohydrates. As the bacteria feed, they produce an acid that damages tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay over time.

Eliminating sugar from children's diets may help prevent cavities. Limit sweets to a single serving each day, at most. Children should brush their teeth immediately afterward. Avoid sugary drinks like soda and undiluted juice. These beverages spread sugar across the mouth, providing a breeding ground for bacteria.

If your toddler still uses a bottle, consider transitioning them to an adult cup. Otherwise, avoid bedtime feedings and do not put the child to bed with a bottle or sippy cup. These practices can lead to early tooth decay.

Making Household Changes After a Cavity Diagnosis

If a child has a cavity, take a closer look at their oral hygiene routine. Have the child commit to brushing and flossing every morning and night. A sticker chart or reward system can help children stay on track. Use a timer or an electric toothbrush to make sure that they are brushing for a full two minutes.

Supervise the child as they brush and floss. Even responsible children can sometimes be lazy about oral hygiene. Busy families might find it helpful to brush and floss in the same bathroom. Taking care of oral hygiene as a family reinforces healthy dental habits.

Professional Cavity Treatments

If a child has a cavity, they will need a filling. This treatment keeps the decay from worsening. If the cavity is not filled, the decay might spread, and the child may need a root canal or extraction. Early treatment is essential for avoiding these outcomes.

During a filling, the dentist numbs the child's mouth. They drill out the decay and fill the tooth. Modern fillings are tooth-colored and invisible to the naked eye. Simple filings can be performed in about 30 minutes. If the child has several cavities, treatment may take longer. In some cases, the dentist may spread out the treatment over multiple visits. Performing the treatment in stages keeps young children from getting restless.

Cavity Signs and Symptoms

Parents should get in the habit of examining their infant and toddler's mouths. Look for signs of decay, like tooth discoloration. Pay attention to your child's feeding habits, too. If they are reluctant to chew or they avoid hot and cold food, that might be a sign of a cavity.

Older children can usually verbalize their symptoms. If a child reports tooth pain or sensitivity, see a dentist right away. The sooner the cavity is detected, the sooner it can be treated. Treatment lowers your child's risk of severe decay.

Understanding Cavity Causes

Cavities form when the tooth enamel breaks down while harmful bacteria start eating away at the tooth’s surface layer. Enamel is the thin coating on the top layer of teeth. Often, cavities develop because bacteria in the mouth have eaten away at the enamel. Eating a lot of sugary, sticky foods may increase the risk for cavities.

Poor oral hygiene can result in cavities, too. Some cases of tooth decay are linked to injuries, like cracked teeth. Parents can help prevent childhood cavities by ensuring regular brushing and flossing. Active children may need to wear a mouth guard to prevent injuries. A dentist can provide more details about these devices.