What You Need to Know About Baby Teeth Decay
Protecting your child’s baby teeth against decay is an important part of proper oral hygiene. Baby teeth not only help your child’s permanent alignment but also allow them to chew and speak correctly. While 42% of children 2 to 11 experience tooth decay, it’s preventable with the right measures.
What is Baby Teeth Decay?
Baby teeth decay is caused by bacteria left on the tooth that breaks down and destructs the enamel. While mouth bacteria is common, the combination of bacteria with food, saliva, and acid leads to decay which ultimately results in cavities.
Children at high-risk of baby teeth decay include:
- A diet that consists of starches and sugar
- Shared spoons, pacifiers, and food
- Water supply without fluoride
- Limited oral hygiene
- Increased bacteria
Baby Teeth Decay Symptoms
If you’re worried about baby teeth decay, stay vigilant and look for the following symptoms:
- White spots on the gum line or upper front teeth
- Early sensitivity when eating cold or hot foods
- Pain around the teeth
- A visible light-brown cavity
While these symptoms may be hard to spot, the doctors at Tender Care Pediatric Dentistry can treat baby teeth decay early on to prevent additional damage from spreading.
How to Prevent Baby Teeth Decay
Although baby teeth decay can be scary, you can prevent the problem by following a few simple steps. With the right adoption of oral hygiene, you can keep your child’s baby teeth aligned and bright until permanent teeth grow in.
Baby teeth prevention tips include:
- Brushing and flossing twice a day as soon as the first tooth appears
- Eating a well-balanced diet that includes limited sugars
- Avoiding sharing utensils or bottles
- Scheduling ongoing cleanings and exams every six months
Baby Teeth Decay Diagnosis in Mount Pleasant, Murrysville
It’s important to remember that baby teeth decay is preventable! If you see signs of decay, the doctors at Tender Care Pediatric Dentistry will help assess the damage and put together a treatment plan that’s suited towards your child’s needs. Treatment may include removing the decayed tooth and replacing it with a filling to avoid further damage.
To avoid baby teeth decay, schedule an appointment with Tender Care Pediatric Dentistry today to understand your options.
Posted In:
Pediatric Dentist
Baby Tooth Loss
Baby Teeth Decay
