Parents are often surprised when they take their child to the dentist and discover a baby tooth has a cavity. Parents typically want to know if it is okay to leave the cavity alone because the tooth will eventually fall out. The baby or primary teeth play an important role and should be properly cared for. The primary teeth ensure that children can properly speak and eat. In addition, the primary teeth help the permanent teeth stay healthy and erupt properly. It is important to treat cavities, even in the baby teeth.
A small cavity may repair itself through a process called remineralization. When the dentist detects the early formation of a cavity, they can educate parents on preventing growth or the formation of additional cavities. The dentist will typically educate the parents on how to practice good oral hygiene and ensure the child is consuming a well-balanced diet. The parent should also avoid giving the child juice or other sugary beverages.
If the baby tooth will fall out soon, the pediatric dentist may determine if does not need to be filled. Patients who are old enough likely will not keep the tooth for long and the dentist may let the tooth to fall out naturally.
According to a study from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists, more than half of children in the U.S. will experience tooth decay before they are 5 years old. Tooth decay which is not treated can result in infection, painful chewing, and even nutrition issues. Children which serious decay often have trouble in school, likely a result of the pain and discomfort they experience.
In the past, children had their first visit to the dental when they were a few years old and all of their teeth had erupted. Unfortunately, childhood dental cavities were becoming an issue. Dental professionals now recommend that a child completes their first visit to the pediatric dentist prior to their first birthday. The pediatric dentist will work with the parents to ensure they are practicing good oral hygiene at home. The dentist can also educate parents on a balanced diet and monitor the teeth for any issues. Appointments with the pediatric dentist also give parents the ability to discuss any concerns or habits such as the use of bottles or pacifiers, and thumb sucking. Regular visits to the dentist also ensure the child is comfortable and makes the appointments part of the child’s routine.
Parents typically want to know why is it important to repair teeth that will ultimately fall out. Tooth decay is actually a disease. Specific germs and bacteria cause tooth decay. When the decay spreads, it can cause serious, long-term issues. Severe tooth decay in baby teeth can damage the permanent teeth before they even erupt.
The baby teeth are actually a different consistency compared to the adult teeth. They are also thinner. As a result, it is critical to practice good oral hygiene with regular brushing, flossing, and oral care. Cavities on the baby teeth can quickly progress and require a root canal or crown. Untreated cavities can result in infection, severe pain, and swelling.
One important role of the baby teeth is to aid in the development and positioning of the adult teeth. Baby teeth which have severe decay or require extraction often result in orthodontic issues in the years to come. Parents should work with a pediatric dentist if their child has a cavity to determine the best plan for treatment plan. Cavities in the baby teeth should not be ignored. Prompt treatment is important for the child to maintain good oral health.