One of the main reasons your child's dentist recommends brushing and flossing every day is to prevent cavities. Also known as dental caries, these affect over 90% of adults in America, and are also common in children. To help you protect your little one’s teeth, here's what you need to know about how they develop.

What Parents Should Know About Cavities

What are they?

Cavities are small pits or hollows in the outer layer of a tooth. They form when bacteria in the mouth secrete acid, wearing away at the enamel. As the crevices get deeper, more bacteria hide inside, accelerating the process of decay and making the holes grow.

Why do they matter?

Dental decay weakens the tooth, making it more vulnerable to damage, including chips. If a hole on a permanent tooth gets deep, the soft inner pulp can become infected, which would require a root canal. Also, cavities don't heal naturally over time, unless they’re filled by a dentist.

How can I prevent this issue?

Bacteria feed on sugar, so the more sugar your child eats, the more acid the bacteria in their mouth produce. You can help your child avoid cavities by limiting the amount of sugar they consume and ensuring they drink water with every meal, which helps rinse away food particles and dilute acids. Bacteria also hide in sticky tooth plaque and tartar, so brushing twice a day is a must.

What if my child has a cavity?

To keep the opening from getting deeper and prevent infection, your child's dentist will clear out the infected area and surrounding enamel. They'll then apply a filling. This can be made of a range of materials, including metal and composite resin. The filling will seal the hole to prevent bacteria from penetrating the tooth. 

If you need a dentist to check your child for cavities, choose Pediatric Dentistry of Onalaska, LLC. Serving La Crosse County, WI, and the Tri-State Area, they’ve offered treatment for children and teens for over 19 years. They’re a member of the American Dental Association (ADA) and pride themselves on their quick response times. Call (608) 781-9114 to make an appointment, or learn more about cavities on their website.