3 Signs Your Child May Have a Cavity

When you’re a parent, seeing your child in pain is just about the worst thing ever. You just wish there were something you could do. If their pain is caused by a cavity, you simply have to take them to their pediatric dentist in Midland. How can you tell if your little one has a cavity? Continue reading to learn about the 3 major signs.

1. Pain and Sensitivity

When a deep cavity has formed, the nerves of the tooth may be exposed and cause pain as well as sensitivity to extreme hot and cold temperatures. You may hear your child complain about tooth pain, but if your they communicate with more nonverbal cues, they may express pain in other ways. If your son or daughter only chews on one side of their mouth, or if they have pained facial expressions after eating or drinking something hot or cold, ask them if something is wrong. When in doubt, take them to see their dentist for teens in Midland just to make sure.

2. Staining on the Surface of the Tooth

You shouldn’t see any visible stains on your child’s teeth unless they’ve just eaten something colorful. Make sure to examine your little one’s teeth on a regular basis for black or brown discoloration. In addition, check their gums for any redness or swelling. Those could also be symptoms of a cavity.

3. Visible Holes in the Tooth

The most obvious sign of a cavity is one you can see. If you notice a hole in your kid’s tooth, it almost definitely means that something is wrong. Schedule an appointment with their dentist right away.

How Can You Prevent Cavities?

Other than seeing your dentist twice a year for checkups and cleanings, here are some tips to keep cavities at bay:

• Make sure your child brushes their teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time. If they’re older than 3 years old, use a pea-sized dab of toothpaste with fluoride and a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head.
• Be sure they floss at least once a day.
• Until about the age of 9, kids typically need supervision brushing and flossing. Be sure to show them the proper techniques.
• Offer mouth-healthy snacks like fruits and veggies instead of candy or juice. Sugary and starchy foods increase the risk of tooth decay.

If you think your little one has a cavity, it’s important to contact their dentist right away. Even if nothing is wrong, it never hurts to make sure.

About the Author

Dr. Thomas Youngblood earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in 2002. Now he treats young smiles at Midland Kid’s Dentistry in Midland, TX. If you think your young one has a cavity, don’t hesitate to call Dr. Youngblood at (432) 520-5437 or visit his website.