4 Reasons to Have Kids’ Cavities Filled and 3 Tips for Prevention

Does the pediatric dentist really need to fill your child’s cavities? There are advantages to being proactive if tooth decay is detected.

Does a Pediatric Dentist Really Need to Fill Kids’ Cavities?

Yes. Consider four benefits.

1. Keeps Teeth Aligned – When cavities are filled, it prevents further tooth decay. Primary teeth guide permanent teeth into the right position. And when a decayed tooth is lost due to lack of treatment, nearby teeth will drift into the empty space and cause misalignment. Orthodontic treatment will be recommended.
2. Limits Sensitivity – Cavities can create sensitivity in tooth nerves. If your child’s teeth become painful or sensitive, properly chewing food will become difficult. Food that isn’t sufficiently chewed can create digestive issues. Also, if decayed teeth make eating uncomfortable, your child will avoid certain foods and possibly suffer from inadequate nutrition.
3. Improves Appearance – Cavities can darken teeth and cause them to chip or break. If a decayed tooth is visible when your child smiles, it can be embarrassing, and your child won’t enjoy smiling.
4. Controls Bad Breath – Tooth decay stinks. The odor from bacteria lingers on the breath. Your child might be teased or shunned by other children.

If your child has cavities and the dentist is recommending treatment for them, give serious consideration to the benefits, as well as the consequences of leaving the cavities untreated.

Ways to Limit Pediatric Dental Visits for Cavities

Below are some ways to limit pediatric dental visits for
having cavities filled.

• Practice good oral hygiene at home – Monitor your child to ensure they are brushing their teeth twice daily and flossing between them daily. Brushing and flossing keep bacteria and plaque at a minimum.
• Proper nutrition – Sugary foods and drinks increase the amount of acid on teeth and promote decay. Ensure your child drinks plenty of water. Plan ahead by keeping healthy snacks at home, including fruit, veggies, and nuts.
• Regular dental checkups – Maintain regular pediatric dental appointments for cleanings and exams. Preventive care detects developing cavities early so they can be treated before a filling is needed.

When your child’s first tooth erupts, schedule an
appointment for a checkup. The dentist will examine the tooth and determine if it is healthy. Early attention to tooth development can identify any concerns and treat them before they worsen.

This post is sponsored by Chatham, NJ dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley. Dr. Hurley is an accredited cosmetic dentist who enjoys helping children achieve and maintain healthy, attractive smiles.