About 40% of kids between the ages of 5-11 years are affected by tooth decay in most industrialized countries, this is due to the consumption of numerous snacks or junk that breaks down sugar on the tooth surface. When you look closely at your kid’s tooth, you might notice a smaller hole in one of those sets of molars, that is a cavity. As parents or caregivers, you may dive into pediatric dental care for your kids who often complain of toothache, loss of tooth, or swelling.
Cavities in children are a common concern, but they might not be inevitable, understanding the causes, knowing how to prevent them, and exploring the treatment options can make a difference in maintaining your child’s oral health. In this article, we’ll explore what cavities are, why they occur in children, and the best practices for prevention and treatment.
Cavities and The Types of Cavities
Cavities also known as dental caries or tooth decay are permanently damaged areas in the hard surface of your teeth that develop into tiny openings or holes. They are caused by different factors, including bacteria in your mouth, frequent snacking, sipping sugary drinks, and not cleaning your teeth well enough.
Types of Cavities
1. Smooth Surface Cavities
They are dental caries that affect the flat, smooth exterior teeth surfaces. These surfaces are the broad, flat areas on the sides and back of the teeth, which are generally easier to clean compared to the pits and fissures found on the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars.
2. Pit and Fissure Cavities
Remember the holes found on your kid’s tooth around the set of molars when you looked closer at it earlier? The pit and fissure cavities have surfaces with natural grooves, or pits and fissures, which can be deep and narrow, making them difficult to clean with a toothbrush. Food particles and bacteria can easily get trapped in these areas, leading to cavity formation.
3. Root Cavities
Also known as root caries or decay, they are cavities that form on the roots of the teeth. Unlike the enamel-covered crowns of the teeth, the roots are covered by a substance called cementum, which is softer and more susceptible to decay. Root cavities often occur where the gum has receded, exposing the root surfaces to gum recession, plaque build-up, and cavity development.
Causes of Cavities in Kids
Several factors contribute to the cause of cavities in kids, here are the three most common ones.
1. Diet and Sugar Intake
When kids consume foods high in sugar, the bacteria in their mouths metabolize these sugars, producing acids as a byproduct. These acids in the teeth are harmful as they erode the enamel, the hard, protective outer layer of the tooth. Foods and drinks like candies, cookies, soda, and fruit juices are high in sugar, though the body would crave it, as parents you have to say no to these foods and drinks sometimes. But if your kid consumes these foods, you can rinse his mouth with water or wait about 30 minutes to brush his teeth.
2. Poor Oral Hygiene
Kids not up to 10 years old should be supervised while brushing their teeth because, at this age, they do not understand the implications of not brushing properly and this causes plaque buildup. This plaque contains bacteria that produce acids when they come into contact with sugars from food. Then the acids produced by these bacteria start to erode the enamel, which is the tooth’s hard, protective outer layer. Over time, the continuous acid attack weakens the enamel, creating small holes or cavities. So be sure your kids floss at least once daily to remove plaque and food particles between their teeth.
3. Genetics and Medical Conditions
The genetic composition of a child can determine the physical characteristics of their teeth, such as enamel strength, tooth shape, and spacing. Some children may inherit softer enamel, making their teeth more prone to cavities. Also, certain medical conditions make your kids susceptible to cavities, examples are diabetes, asthma, and auto-immune diseases.
Prevention and Treatment
Kids are to brush their teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Proper brushing removes plaque and food particles, reducing the risk of cavity formation. While at it, flossing is essential in removing plaque and food particles between teeth and under the gumline where a toothbrush cannot reach.
Regular dental visits every three months will help detect and address early signs of cavities and other oral health issues.
Treatment Options
Notice any cavities in your kid’s teeth? Then prompt treatment is important to prevent further decay and restore oral health. Here are the primary treatment options:
1. Filling
For cavities that have progressed beyond the enamel, the decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the cavity is filled with a material such as composite resin, amalgam, or glass ionomer. Fillings restore the tooth’s function and appearance and prevent further decay. Composite resin is popular for its tooth-colored appearance, while amalgam is known for its durability
2. Crowns
In cases where the decay is extensive and has weakened the tooth structure significantly, a crown (a tooth-shaped cap) may be placed over the tooth to restore its shape, size, and function. Crowns can be made of stainless steel, porcelain, or composite materials.
3. Extraction
Though most kids are terrified of the pain that comes with extraction, in a situation where the tooth is too damaged to be saved, it may need to be extracted. After extraction, space maintainers may be used to ensure proper alignment of the remaining teeth, particularly in children with primary teeth.
As parents and caregivers, it is essential to take proactive steps in managing your children’s oral health. Start by teaching them proper brushing and flossing techniques, limiting their sugary and acidic foods, and making regular visits to the dentist a priority. These preventive measures will help your children maintain healthy teeth and gums, setting them up for a lifetime of good oral health. Remember, a healthy smile starts with you!
