Cavities are common in kids. However, many parents are unsure whether to fill the cavities or wait until the teeth fall out. Untreated cavities can cause pain and discomfort, making it challenging for the child to eat and speak. It can also lead to serious infections, which can affect the teeth and gums. That's not all! Failing to treat cavities increases the risk of tooth decay in the future. For this reason, filling cavities in kids is necessary to avoid oral complications.
Are There Circumstances Where Cavities Do Not Require Filling?
Cavities do not always indicate that the child must undergo dental filling. A pediatric dentist starts by examining the child's mouth to determine an effective treatment for cavities. For instance, small cavities on the tooth's outer surface can repair itself.
In most cases, a professional may recommend good oral habits such as cleaning the mouth regularly using fluoride toothpaste. He may also advise you on the foods to avoid to reduce the risks of cavities. However, if the cavity has spread to the tooth's inner layer, the specialist may suggest filling.
Another factor determining if the baby needs filling is how soon the tooth will fall out. If the tooth is loose or may become loose in the next few months, a pediatric dentist may suggest some improvements in oral hygiene. This may involve regular dental checkups and brushing until the tooth falls out.
How Can You Tell If Your Baby Has Cavities?
The most common sign of cavities is tooth pain and sensitivity when drinking or eating. Visible holes and brown or dark yellow spots on the tooth may also be noticed. Unfortunately, some children do not show these symptoms. That's why it is necessary to visit a pediatric dentist regularly so they can catch cavities early. Call our office today and learn more about dental fillings for kids.
Dentist Hillsboro, OR | Dental Blog - Century Dental Hillsboro, OR Jefferson Call, DMD and Dix Densley, DDS believe that the better informed their patients are, the better their decisions about dental care can be. With this blog, they hope to inform and empower our readers in their oral health. - See more Century Dental, 2831 SE Cornelius Pass Rd, Hillsboro, OR 97123 • (971) 708-1608 • centurydentalllc.com • 10/27/2024 • Tags: Dentist Hillsboro OR