Dental caries is the destruction of tooth enamel and the hard outer surface of the tooth. If left untreated, the disease can spread to other teeth over time. Tooth decay is very common in children. Unfortunately, some parents still underestimate this problem. However, it is extremely important to treat dental caries in children at an early stage before complications develop.
Why Do Children Develop Tooth Decay?
Many parents still do not fully understand the importance of caring for primary (baby) teeth. Unfortunately, there is a common misconception that baby teeth will eventually fall out anyway, so they do not require much attention. The consequences of this approach can be serious and painful for the child, as well as costly for parents.
Dental caries is caused by bacteria from the streptococcus family that damage tooth enamel. These bacteria thrive as a result of food debris accumulating in dental plaque.
It is important to note that primary teeth are less mineralized than permanent teeth, making them more susceptible to bacterial attack.
Bacteria can not only multiply in a child’s mouth but may also be transmitted by parents, for example, when they lick a pacifier or a child’s spoon.
It is important to understand that dental caries is an infectious disease.
Which Children Are at Risk?
All children have bacteria in their mouths. Therefore, all children are at risk of developing tooth decay. Some children may be more susceptible to cavities due to genetic factors.
However, several factors can increase a child’s risk of developing dental caries:
- high levels of cavity-causing bacteria;
- a diet high in sugar and starch;
- poor oral hygiene;
- reduced saliva production.
Symptoms of Dental Caries in Children
In its early stages, tooth decay in children is usually asymptomatic. At some point, a buildup of plaque may appear, resembling a yellowish deposit that adheres tightly to the child’s teeth. This is a signal to schedule a dental visit as soon as possible.
The next stage of tooth decay development is the appearance of dark streaks on the teeth, which are easily distinguishable from the enamel. Even at this stage, there is no need to extract the tooth, as it can still be treated.
Advanced tooth decay in children appears as dark cavities located directly near the gum line. Tooth decay can spread very quickly to other teeth. Advanced decay may ultimately lead to the extraction of a primary tooth.
The symptoms of tooth decay may vary from child to child. Sometimes children are unaware that they have cavities until a dentist detects them.
However, your child may experience pain in the area around a tooth and sensitivity to certain foods, especially sweets, as well as hot or cold drinks.
How to Treat Tooth Decay in Children
Tooth decay in children is diagnosed by a dentist after examining the oral cavity. An X-ray may also be required to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment depends on the stage of tooth decay. In the early stages, the use of fluoride toothpaste and professional fluoride treatment performed by a dentist may be sufficient.
If tooth decay has reached an advanced stage, fluoride treatment will not be effective. In such cases, it is necessary to remove the damaged portion of the tooth and restore the cavity with a filling.
The last resort is tooth extraction; however, this is performed only when treatment is no longer feasible. Premature tooth extraction may lead to malocclusion in the future, which can often be corrected only with braces.
How to Prevent Tooth Decay in Children
With proper prevention, you can spare your child unnecessary stress and pain.
First and foremost, prevention involves maintaining good oral hygiene. Much depends on the parents, as they are responsible for teaching their child how to care for their teeth.
It is important to care for your baby’s oral health even before the first teeth erupt. Infants’ gums should be gently cleaned with boiled water, and once the first teeth appear, daily brushing becomes essential.
It is also important to visit the dentist regularly. A child’s first dental visit should take place when the first tooth erupts. This is an excellent opportunity to introduce the child to the dentist without negative associations, which may help prevent dental phobia later in life. If the first visit is associated with pain, the child may quickly develop the perception that “the dentist means pain” and avoid future appointments.
It is not recommended to give a child food or sweet drinks at night after they have brushed their teeth. It is also important to reduce the amount of sweets in the child’s diet and replace them with healthier food choices.
This article does not replace a medical consultation. For complete and personalized information, please consult your dentist.