How Children’s Dentistry in DuPont Fixes Cavities

May 5, 2019

Filed under: Dental Hygiene — tntadmin @ 9:42 pm
boy sitting in dentist's chair

Is there anything more special than your little one’s smile? Well, yes actually. Knowing that smile is healthy and cavity-free is even better. Tooth decay is not uncommon among toddlers. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research estimates that 42 percent of children aged two to 11 will develop at least one cavity. Fortunately, children’s dentistry in DuPont fixes cavities. Read on to learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of cavities and how you can help your child avoid tooth decay. 

Recognizing the Signs of a Cavity

Aside from making sure your child sees the dentist ever six months for a checkup, there are several visual signs to be aware of that may indicate a cavity. 

White spots on your child’s teeth may mean a cavity is on the way. However, you’ll know there is a cavity when that white spot becomes light brown. As the cavity worsens, the spot will become darker. 

In addition, your child may complain of a toothache or soreness in the area. There may also be sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, as well as sweets. At this point, you need to schedule a visit with the dentist. 

How Does Tooth Decay Happen?

Tooth decay happens when acidic excretions from oral bacteria begin to erode tooth enamel. This erosion can eventually become a hole in the outer surface of a tooth. This hole is called a cavity or dental caries. 

Behaviors That Increase the Risk of Decay

  • Eating too many foods that are high in sugar or carbohydrates
  • Not brushing and flossing teeth every day, twice a day
  • Drinking water that is not fluoridated

Therefore, make sure your child adheres to a strict oral hygiene routine. Use fluoride toothpaste and limit sugary and starchy snacks. For toddlers that still take a bottle, don’t lay them down to sleep with one in their mouth. Baby bottle decay can happen when teeth have prolonged exposure to sugary liquids, including milk and juice. 

How Are Cavities Treated?

First, the dentist will likely apply a topical gel to superficially numb the tooth and surrounding gum tissue. Then, a local anesthetic is administered so your child will not feel a thing as decay is removed with a drill or small scraping tool. 

After the tooth is cleaned, the cavity is filled with composite resin, a dental material that will match the color of your child’s tooth. No one will be able to tell the difference between the filled tooth and the other teeth in his or her mouth. Moreover, because composite resin bonds with the remaining tooth structure, your child’s tooth will be as strong as a natural tooth. 

If your child is experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms of a cavity, then call to schedule an appointment. With family dentistry in DuPont, you can ensure the health and beauty of your children’s smiles.

Say Hello to Dupont Family Dentistry

At Dupont Family Dentistry, our team works hard to help you take of your children’s smiles. Schedule regular dental checkups for them, and if they complain of a toothache, make an appointment today with your dentist in DuPont.

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