I have 3 kids. The pediatric dentist says that my 5 yr old has 2 cavities that need to be filled. The 5 yr old is my youngest. Neither of the older children ever needed to have a cavity filled in a primary tooth that will eventually fall out. Is this really necessary? Thank you. – Wendy

Wendy – Untreated decay in a tooth can progress into an infection. If the infection is left untreated, it can lead to a pulpotomy for children, which is similar to an adult root canal treatment.

Removing the decay from the tooth and preserving it not only protects the tooth from infection. It preserves the tooth as a placeholder and helps permanent tooth erupt in the correct position.

Your child’s dentist is considering the long-term benefits of filling the cavities.

This post is sponsored by Bedminster dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley.