Signs That Your Child Has A Cavity
Posted on: 13 July 2023
Cavities are one of the most common dental problems among children. They are caused by bacteria that feed on sugar and produce acid that erodes the enamel of the teeth. If left untreated, cavities can lead to pain, infection, tooth loss, and even affect the overall health of your child.
But how can you tell if your child has a cavity? Sometimes, cavities are not visible to the naked eye, especially if they are in between the teeth or on the back molars. Other times, they may not cause any symptoms until they reach the nerve of the tooth.
Nonetheless, there are some signs that you can look out for at home that may indicate that your child has a cavity. Here are some of them.
Toothache
If your child complains of pain or sensitivity in their teeth, especially when eating or drinking something hot, cold, sweet, or sour, they may have a cavity. The pain may come and go or be constant, depending on the severity of the decay.
Discoloration
Cavities often appear as dark spots or holes on the surface of the teeth. They may be brown, black, or gray in color. Sometimes, they may also cause white spots on the enamel, which indicate early stages of decay.
Bad Breath
Cavities can cause bad breath because of the bacteria and food particles that get trapped in them. If your child has persistent bad breath that does not go away with brushing or flossing, they may have a cavity.
Difficulty Chewing
Cavities can make it hard for your child to chew their food properly. They may avoid eating certain foods or chew only on one side of their mouth. They may also have trouble opening or closing their mouth because of the pain or swelling.
Swelling
Cavities can cause inflammation and infection in the gums and surrounding tissues. This can result in swelling, redness, tenderness, or pus around the affected tooth. If your child has any of these signs, they may have a serious cavity that needs immediate attention.
If you notice any signs that your child has a cavity, you should take them to the dentist as soon as possible. The sooner a cavity is treated, the easier and less invasive it will be. Contact a dentist in your local area.
The dentist will examine your child's teeth and take X-rays to determine the extent of the decay. They will then recommend the best course of treatment, which may include filling, crown, root canal, or extraction.
Contact a pediatric dental clinic like Apollo Dental Center to learn more.
Share