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

How Often Should You Schedule A Child Dental Cleaning?

Child dental cleaning is essential to a child’s oral and general health. This treatment is part of the young patient’s dental checkup every six months. It is necessary to achieve good oral health during the formative years. Here are the details about the ideal frequency of child dental cleaning.A parent must schedule a child dental…

Tips For Finding An Emergency Pediatric Dentist Near You

No one wants to experience a dental emergency, and children especially do not often know what to do in such a situation, so knowing which emergency pediatric dentist near you can assist if something goes wrong is essential. Caregivers should try not to scramble at the last minute for this information. Ideally, they should prepare…

Choosing The Right Emergency Pediatric Dentist

Wondering how to find an emergency pediatric dentist? Read on to learn more. Dental emergencies can happen at any time, especially with children. If you have an oral emergency like tooth pain or dental trauma, you need to find an emergency pediatric dentist as soon as possible. Otherwise, you will have to go to an…

Signs Your Child Needs To See An Emergency Pediatric Dentist

An emergency pediatric dentist is dedicated to providing quick, comprehensive care to help restore your child's oral health. This, in turn, provides parents peace of mind when unforeseen circumstances occur. Take a look at a few reasons we may work your child up the appointment list.Bleeding gums are usually a sign of gum disease, a…

Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental

Share
Published by
Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental

Recent Posts

How Often Should You Schedule a Child Dental Cleaning?

A child dental cleaning twice a year can help the child enjoy the many benefits…

1 day ago

Tips for Finding an Emergency Pediatric Dentist Near You

No one wants to experience a dental emergency, and children especially do not often know…

1 day ago

Choosing the Right Emergency Pediatric Dentist

Wondering how to find an emergency pediatric dentist? Read on to learn more. Dental emergencies…

6 days ago

Signs Your Child Needs to See an Emergency Pediatric Dentist

An emergency pediatric dentist is dedicated to providing quick, comprehensive care to help restore your…

1 week ago

Why Choosing a Kid-Friendly Dentist Matters for Your Child’s Comfort

Working with your kid-friendly dentist can help your child maintain good oral health until later…

1 week ago

What Warrants a Trip to an Emergency Pediatric Dentist

Emergency pediatric dentists are crucial in swiftly addressing conditions that immediately threaten your child's oral…

2 weeks ago