No matter how old you are, cavities are quite literally a pain. For adults, of course, the reasons that these need to be taken care of are clear—you don’t get a second chance with your teeth—but it’s just as important for these to be monitored in baby teeth. In fact, according to the pediatric dentistry associates at Honolulu and Lihue, HI based, Pediatric Dental Group, there are both cosmetic and medical reasons that cavities in baby teeth need to be taken care of as soon as possible.

But won’t they just fall out? Why should you worry about cavities in baby teeth? There are plenty of reasons:

• Comfort and Confidence: Cavities, as you’re probably aware, can be extremely painful. Furthermore, dental issues can also affect confidence.
• Speech Skills: It’s not that well known a fact, but healthy teeth are essential for the development of speech skills. Discomfort or significant decay can actually delay certain speaking abilities.
• Proper Development: Even though baby teeth fall out, cavities in baby teeth can actually influence the development of permanent teeth. If a tooth is lost before the next one is ready to erupt—something which can happen as a result of cavities—then there’s a risk of uneven development, leading to problems associated with crooked teeth.
• A Worsening Problem: Another issue that arises if cavities in baby teeth are not taken care of is that the decay will spread to the root of the tooth and even create an abscess, which can reach the bone. Extreme cases will not only require extraction, but the use of a special appliance to maintain the proper spacing.
• Act Fast: The longer you wait to get a cavity taken care of, for both children and adults, the more extensive and thereby expensive the necessary treatment; early action on these issues—not to mention regular dental exams—is a great preventative measure.

Don’t assume that you can overlook your child’s cavity; if you’re in Hawaii, the highly trained team at Pediatric Dental Group is ready to help. Find out more about these dental care specialists by visiting their website or simply calling the Honolulu office at (808) 593-8828 or Lihue at (808) 245-2131 today!