When children have a cavity, even in a tooth destined to fall out on its own, treatment is still necessary to avoid painful complications. To treat cavities, we have lifelike and metal-free composite resin dental fillings. In today’s blog, your Round Rock, TX, pediatric dentist talks about how we treat cavities in little smiles!

How Cavities Form

For kids and adults alike, each tooth is coated in a protective layer of enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. This helps safeguard the sensitive inner dentin and pulp against the impact of harmful bacteria. But when poor oral hygiene habits weaken enamel, or an injury cracks or chips this defensive layer, a cavity forms and eventually, causing discomfort and the risk of painful infection or even tooth loss! Factors behind the onset of cavities include diets high in sugar and starch, and for kids and babies, falling asleep with a sippy cup or bottle of milk or juice. Lack of proper brushing and flossing is a factor too, as are infrequent visits for professional cleanings.

The Dangers of Ignoring Decay in Baby Teeth

Yes, the primary teeth do fall out over time, but this could happen months or even years after tooth decay forms in them. Which means waiting could lead to decay so severe the teeth all out or require extraction to protect the rest of the smile from the spread of infection. Losing baby teeth prematurely means they are not there to guide the permanent teeth into proper position, so misalignment could develop. In the teen years, this could call for braces or aligners to correct, and could increase the risk of decay, gingivitis, and issues with bite balance and chewing function in the meantime. If your child complains about sore or aching teeth, let us know right away so we can treat the concern and protect the smile.

The Dental Fillings

We have a lifelike and metal-free option to treat cases of tooth decay. Our team will numb the smile and for anxious kids or those with special needs, we could offer sedation. We then remove decay, cleaning the tooth, and apply the composite resin filling materials, which we shade to blend with the tooth. We then shape the tooth as we cure the composite resin under a light, before finally polishing the tooth for a brighter appearance. If you have any questions about this process, then contact our team today to learn more.

Your Round Rock, TX Pediatric Dentist Treats Children’s Cavities

At Pediatric Dentistry Of Round Rock, we have a lifelike treatment for cavities. For more information on treating minor or severe cases of tooth decay, or to set up an appointment, contact your Round Rock, TX, pediatric dentist, Dr. Thames, by calling 512-733-5311.