Tooth decay (cavities) is the #1 most common preventable childhood disease. Even with the best oral hygiene and regular trips to Thrive Kids Dentistry, it’s possible for your child to get a cavity. But how do you know when you need to come to our office to have their cavity filled? What are the signs of tooth decay in kids? Read on, find out, and make sure your kids get the care they need in if they have cavities.
If your child has a cavity, they may complain of tooth sensitivity. This is common when consuming really hot foods and drinks (tea, hot chocolate), or really cold ones (ice cream, popsicles).
Your child’s tooth may also feel sensitive to sugary foods, which is a common sign of a cavity. Or, it may cause them discomfort when they chew. All of these signs could indicate tooth decay or a tooth infection.
Early on, tooth decay causes “soft spots” as minerals are leached from your child’s enamel. This causes white spots to appear on the surface of their tooth. If you see lots of white spots on your child’s teeth, this is a sign of early-stage decay.
As the cavities get larger, you will start to see brown, gray, or black discoloration around the cavity. If you see this discoloration, you should come and see Dr. Christie right away to have your child’s tooth filled.
Cavities get their name because they’re… cavities! They’re small holes in the tooth, and if your child has a large cavity, you can see these holes or pits yourself. Grab a flashlight and look at your child’s teeth. If you see visible pits or holes in their teeth, you should definitely take them to see the team at Thrive Kids Dentistry.
Large cavities cause a lot of bacteria to collect in and around your child’s tooth. This can lead to gum swelling or even discoloration near the affected tooth. If your child’s gums mostly look healthy, but you’ve noticed some discoloration or swelling in one particular area, this could indicate a cavity.
If your child complains about tooth pain that doesn’t go away for a day or two, they likely have a very deep cavity. Deep cavities can cause tooth infections when they reach the nerve-filled pulp within the tooth. When bacteria attack this pulp, it causes severe pain and discomfort.
If your child complains of constant tooth pain, you should see the dentist right away. The sooner you get treatment for your child, the better their outcome will be. Early intervention can protect and restore their oral health, and keep their tooth healthy for years to come.
At Thrive Kids Dentistry, Dr. Christie can diagnose and treat cavities in kids of all ages. If you think your little one may have a cavity in Edmonds, our team is here to help. To schedule a checkup, just give us a call at (425) 329-4949 or contact us online. We’re always accepting new patients, and would love to meet you and your family.
