Closeup of a child's baby teeth that have cavities in Columbus, OH

Do Cavities in Baby Teeth Need Fillings?

May 30, 2021 4:29 pm

Decay occurs when acid weakens the crystalline mineral structure of enamel, the outer layer of teeth. If this area of the tooth is not remineralized, it can progress into a cavity, which is a tiny hole. Patients of all ages are vulnerable to tooth decay and cavities.

We want to keep your child’s baby teeth healthy until they’re ready to fall out on their own. These teeth allow your child to get proper nutrition, learn how to speak, and smile with confidence.

You know this first set of teeth will eventually fall out, so what happens if your child develops a cavity in one of their baby teeth?

If a baby tooth has a cavity, we will consider several factors. For example, how close the tooth is to falling out, how big the cavity is, and if the decay is likely to spread. For teeth that will fall out very soon, we may only recommend improved oral hygiene. But for a cavity that is very big, we may recommend a filling to protect your child from infection, pain, and other dental issues.

How to Tell If a Tooth Has a Cavity

A cavity can cause pain, sensitivity, or a bad taste in the mouth. Or it may not cause any pain! The best way to determine if your child has any decay or cavities is to bring them in for regular appointments at Clover Kids Dental. With our equipment, advanced technology, and expertise, we can identify tooth decay in every stage.

How to Prevent Cavities

You can reduce your child’s risk of developing cavities by helping them maintain good oral health habits. These include brushing and flossing their teeth every day, consuming a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and visiting Clover Kids Dental for routine cleanings, checkups, and other cavity-fighting preventive services like fluoride treatments and dental sealants.

Cavity Treatment at Clover Kids Dental

We use tooth-colored fillings to treat cavities in baby teeth and permanent teeth. These will blend in seamlessly with your child’s smile and allow us to leave as much of the natural tooth intact as possible. We will numb your child’s mouth so they won’t discomfort. And for children that experience dental anxiety or fear, we provide sedation dentistry.

So if your child does get a cavity, we can come up with a personalized treatment plan to get their oral health back on track! Contact us today to schedule your child’s next checkup.

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