How are Kids Cavities Treated?

There are a few options available to dentists when it comes to treating kids cavities. A cavity is a hole that forms on a tooth's surface due to erosion from acids. These acids are created by oral bacteria that live in the mouth, while some come from the things a person consumes. Teeth are protected by an outer layer called the enamel. This is the strongest part of the body, but it can be eroded by acids in the mouth. When this occurs, the inner layer of the tooth called the dentin is exposed to the bacteria, food particles and acids in the child's mouth. Unlike the enamel, the dentin is not designed to withstand these irritants. Once a cavity reaches the dentin, the person will experience symptoms like:

  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Toothaches
  • Bad breath
  • Sore gums
  • Pain when chewing
  • Discoloration
  • Food getting stuck inside a tooth

Treating kids cavities

The treatment options that are commonly used to address kids' cavities include:

1. Fillings

Fillings are the standard treatment for cavities regardless of the patient's age. During the treatment, the dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth and fills it up with a putty-like material that is appropriately called a filling. This material hardens when exposed to air and saliva, and it closes up the hole created by the cavity. This prevents bacteria and food particles from getting into it.

2. Fluoride treatment

This is often performed when the cavity is still in its early stages and has not yet reached the dentin. The fluoride gel or paste is applied to a mouth tray and the patient bites down on it. It helps to remineralize damaged enamel and can keep teeth decay-free for months at a time.

3. Dental sealants

Dental sealants can be used to prevent and treat cavities. They are used to treat minor cavities by filling up the pit with this thin plastic coating. It is an affordable solution that is quite effective.

4. Dental bonding

Dental bonding is often preferred to traditional fillings since it matches the color of the patient's teeth. The composite is poured into the cavity and hardened with an ultraviolet light. When the treatment is finished, it will be virtually impossible to tell the tooth has been repaired with a composite.

5. Crowns

Crowns are used to treat severe cavities, especially if they require a root canal. The crown helps to regain the function of the weakened tooth and improves its appearance. Stainless steel crowns are often recommended for children given their affordability. A crown will keep a milk tooth protected until it is ready to fall out.

Cavities require quick treatment

For the most part, cavities are a minor dental issue as long as they are treated early. They can lead to an infection or the loss of a tooth when ignored. Stop by our Richmond office and have your child examined if you suspect they are developing cavities.

Request an appointment here: https://www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at (832) 579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

What To Do With A Loose Composite Filling

Composite fillings, especially newer ones, are strong and durable but can wear out over time. The excess pressure from grinding teeth can cause them to wear out more quickly. In addition, poor dental hygiene may contribute to decay, compromising fillings. A loose filling is not a dental emergency but requires attention as soon as possible…

Safe And Gentle Teeth Whitening For Kids: What Parents Should Know

A bright and healthy smile is an important part of a child's oral and social development. However, parents may wonder if teeth whitening for kids is a safe and gentle treatment option to improve the appearance of their little one's teeth. While adults have many whitening options, there is some caution that parents should take…

Choosing The Right Kids Dentist For A Stress-Free Dental Experience

Kids dentist practices are key to establishing a positive outlook on dental care, especially when guiding children through the early stages of oral health. Finding the right provider can transform what might otherwise feel like a stressful appointment into a comfortable, beneficial experience. Pediatric dentistry involves more than fixing cavities; it focuses on teaching proper…

Tooth Colored Fillings Can Match Your Smile

Dental fillings can consist of composite (tooth-colored), porcelain, metal, and more. Pediatric dentists use traditional and tooth-colored fillings to close small holes in the teeth, commonly caused by cavities (extremely common in children). The dentist will extract decayed tissues and replace them with one of these filling materials. Dental fillings usually last many years before…

Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental

Share
Published by
Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental

Recent Posts

What to Do With a Loose Composite Filling

Composite fillings, especially newer ones, are strong and durable but can wear out over time.…

1 day ago

Choosing the Right Kids Dentist for a Stress-Free Dental Experience

Kids dentist practices are key to establishing a positive outlook on dental care, especially when…

4 days ago

Safe and Gentle Teeth Whitening for Kids: What Parents Should Know

Children's teeth are still developing, so teeth whitening for kids should always be approached with…

4 days ago

Tooth Colored Fillings Can Match Your Smile

Dental fillings can consist of composite (tooth-colored), porcelain, metal, and more. Pediatric dentists use traditional…

5 days ago

Improve Your Smile with Tooth Colored Fillings

Even with healthy oral habits, children can find themselves in need of dental restoration. Tooth-colored…

1 week ago

5 Tips for Composite Fillings Aftercare

In the past, traditional metal fillings were used to treat cavities. However, they tend to…

2 weeks ago