Cavities in Kids: Why Dental Appointments Are Important?

Cavity, or tooth decay, are prevalent dental issues that develop in toddlers and children. It is permanent damage caused to a milk tooth or a permanent tooth. If ignored or late addressed, the overall oral health of the child can be compromised and eventually lead to the loss of the decayed tooth. The best dentist for Children in Delhi shares that to ensure a child's good oral health, it's crucial for parents or caretakers to understand the importance of regular dental visits. This allows concerns to be spotted early and treated appropriately.

In this blog, we will be learning about cavities in kids and why getting cavities spotted early and treated by a pediatric dentist is crucial.

About Dental Cavities in Kids

Dental cavities, also known to others as dental caries, are the decayed portions of the tooth which have been eaten up by bacterial plaque. These present as small black holes or openings in the teeth, usually accompanied by pain and infection. They occur when the sticky colony of bacteria called plaque forms and thrives inside the mouth. The bacteria that feeds on the food remains stuck on or in between the teeth. While breaking down the food, it releases acids which further erode the teeth enamel and create holes in their dentine.

Dental cavities easily develop in kids due to their improper oral hygiene practice- incorrect brushing technique and neglect of daily flossing. The risk is higher if the kid's diet includes more sweets and starchy foods.

What to Do if Your Kid is Having a Dental Cavity?

If you spot the following signs of a potential cavity, you should not delay in making your child visit a paediatric dentist:

• Dark or white spots on the tooth

• Tooth sensitivity to cold

• Swelling around the tooth

• Fussiness or crying due to pain or discomfort

• Lethargy

• Avoidance of food.

A dental examination conducted by a dental hygienist can only help identify the extent of your child's tooth decay and help your child receive the best possible treatment.

How a Dentist Treats Cavities in Kids?

A dental filling is the most performed dental procedure to save one or more teeth with cavities from falling out. It involves filling the tooth with resin material, silver, gold, or porcelain. It can be done on a kid as young as 1-2 years old. In case of a severe cavity, the best dentist for children in Delhi may recommend a dental crown for further protection. For a badly infected tooth, the only option left is the extraction or pulling out of the tooth.

How Can You Protect Your Child from Cavities?

Firstly, don't let your kid consume more starchy, sugary foods and drinks. Secondly, teach your child good oral hygiene. If your child is a toddler and has not all his/her teeth erupted, you need to wipe your child's gums with a soft cloth after every feeding.

Why Regular Dental Appointments Are Crucial for Kids?

Whether your kid has apparent dental cavities or not, bi-annual or annual dental appointments should never be missed. For kids with cavities, regular dental appointments are beneficial in the following ways:

• Early detection and treatment

• Saves the tooth from loss

• Prevents the spread of infection and future dental concerns

• Maintains good oral and overall health

• Promotes a positive dental experience with a paediatric dentist

• Saves time and money by preventing the worsening of concern and the need for extensive, costly treatments.

Suspect your child has cavities? Hurry and take your child to Dr. Ravneet Kaur, the best orthodontist in Delhi , available for consultation at Smiles by Dr. Ravneet Dental Clinic.

Dr. Ravneet Kaur is a child-friendly dentist and an expert in performing a wide range of dental procedures for children, including root canals, braces, cavity removal, and tooth extractions. Her clinic is child-friendly, and she ensures the children are comfortable during their dental treatment. She ensures their journey at the clinic is smooth and the children go home with smiling faces. Consult her for details on child dental care.