What are the Common Causes of Cavities in Children? What are the Treatment Options?

According to the CDC, tooth decay is one of the most common chronic illnesses among children. By the time a youngster turns four, almost one in four will have a cavity. This research highlights how important it is for parents and guardians to understand the typical causes of dental decay in kids to avoid it.

Here are some reasons why your little one may develop a cavity.  

• Poor dietary habits: Children often like sugary treats like candy, chocolate, and soda. While these snacks are irresistible to kids, they’re also a favorite for cavity-causing bacteria. Starches and sugars left in the mouth provide the perfect environment for harmful bacteria to thrive. As the bacteria feed on these leftover sugars, they produce acids that gradually wear down tooth enamel, leading to cavities over time.
• Inadequate oral hygiene: Young children may have trouble using the proper brushing and flossing techniques because they are still learning to clean their teeth. Food particles and bacteria accumulate in the mouth without thorough cleaning, increasing the risk of cavities.
• Thinner enamel: Children have thinner enamel than adults. Enamel is the teeth’ hard, protective outer layer; it hasn’t fully matured in children. As a result, their teeth are more susceptible to damage from acids produced by bacteria, which can lead to cavities more quickly than in adult teeth.

The symptoms of cavities can vary depending on the severity, but common signs include sensitivity, pain, tooth discoloration, and visible pits.

Address tooth cavities promptly; if left untreated, they can deepen and result in tooth loss and other complications.

Our office emphasizes good oral hygiene habits to prevent tooth decay in children. However, we understand your child needs more than brushing and flossing teeth to prevent decay. We offer dental sealants and fluoride treatments as simple yet effective measures for decay prevention.

Yet, we understand tooth decay can still happen. We offer tooth-colored fillings to repair tooth decay and prevent further damage. Dr. Groat places a tooth filling by gently removing the decayed portions before applying composite resin. Next, the dentist uses a special curing light to harden the filling in minutes. The last step is to reshape the filling to restore a natural bite. A dental filling can last five years or more with proper care.