As a parent, you may wonder whether cavities in baby teeth need to be treated, especially since these teeth will eventually fall out. However, treating cavities in baby teeth is important for maintaining your child's oral health and overall well-being.
Why are baby teeth important?
Baby teeth, also known as primary or milk teeth, play several crucial roles in a child's development:
See also
Does decay in primary teeth affect the permanent dentition?
How do cavities develop in baby teeth?
Cavities in baby teeth develop through a gradual process that doesn’t happen overnight.
It starts when the enamel, the outer surface of the teeth, is damaged by common bacteria living in our mouths. These bacteria feed on sugary residues from food and drinks, producing acids that erode the tooth enamel and pave the way for decay. This “weakening” of the enamel is called demineralization. Even natural sugars found in milk and formula can initiate the decay process.
This process often goes unnoticed until the decay becomes more advanced. Early signs of decay might include white spots on the teeth, sensitivity to temperature changes, or occasional discomfort.
What are the risks of leaving cavities untreated?
Pain and infection
Untreated cavities in baby teeth can lead to pain, discomfort, and infections. As a cavity progresses, it can cause the tooth's nerve to become infected and lead to an abscess. This not only causes severe pain but can also affect the child's ability to eat, speak, and concentrate in school.
Impact on permanent teeth
Cavities in baby teeth can have a direct impact on the health of developing permanent teeth. If a baby tooth is infected, the infection can spread to the underlying permanent tooth, potentially affecting its development and increasing the risk of decay when it emerges.
Misalignment and orthodontic Issues
If a baby tooth is lost prematurely due to decay, the surrounding teeth can shift into the empty space, leading to crowding or misalignment of the permanent teeth. Maintaining the space for permanent teeth is crucial to prevent the need for orthodontic treatments later.
Treatment Options for Cavities in Baby Teeth
Fillings
Dental fillings are recommended for treating small to moderate cavities in baby teeth. A filling restores the tooth's structure and prevents further decay, preserving the tooth's function until it naturally falls out.
Crowns
For more extensive decay, a crown may be necessary to protect and strengthen the tooth. Crowns provide full coverage for the tooth and are often used when a tooth has undergone a “baby root canal” or has large cavities that cannot be adequately restored with a filling.
Pulpotomy or Pulpectomy
If decay has reached the tooth's pulp (inner nerve and blood vessels), a pulpotomy or pulpectomy may be required to remove the infected tissue. This procedure helps save the tooth and prevent the spread of infection to other areas of the mouth.
Preventing cavities in baby teeth
Prevention is key to avoiding cavities in baby teeth. Establishing good oral hygiene habits early on is crucial:
If you’re new to Dubai or are seeking a dental home for your little one, please give Drs. Nicolas & Asp Centers a call at 04 394 7777. Our multispeciality clinics are conveniently located in Jumeirah, The Springs Souk, Marina Walk, and Uptown Mirdif.
