When you have children, it is crucial that you instill in them the importance of maintaining an at-home oral healthcare routine. This consists of brushing their teeth twice daily for at least two minutes and flossing once. We understand that getting your kid to brush his or her teeth can be a difficult task, but it is a crucial one nonetheless. The primary reason this is so necessary is to prevent cavities. We hear about cavities all the time, and they are positioned as the main issue are preventative efforts are levied against them. Despite this word floating around in our minds, many people do not explicitly know what it is. In today’s blog, your Round Rock, TX, pediatric dentist discusses tooth decay and the ways that we can treat it.

What Are Cavities?

Cavities are a common type of tooth decay and are usually caused by diet and overall lifestyle choices. Sugary foods and beverages are the usual culprits that cause cavities; and given that children particularly love sweet treats, it can feel like a battle to keep their teeth free from decay. In addition to sugary snacks, sticky foods can also problems because they can stick to teeth, prompting harmful bacteria to grow and harm teeth. When your child eats these foods and does not adequately brush their teeth, cavities are more likely to develop. Additionally, genetics can also affect susceptibility to decay. In addition to regular brushing and flossing at home, it is equally important to bring your child in for checkups and cleanings, so we can make sure no problems are developing in their small smile.

How We Can Treat Cavities

Should a cavity develop in your child’s mouth, we can most likely treat it with a dental filling. The most common type of cavity is coronal, and it is located near the surface of the enamel. For this procedure, we will carefully remove the decaying part of their tooth and gently clean the space to get rid of the infection. Next, we shape the space and place the filling into the hole. The filling itself is made from a biocompatible resin that seamlessly blends in with the rest of their mouth; we color-match it to the rest of their teeth so it is indistinguishable from its surroundings. Once the filling is placed, it should last for many years to come. Once your child has their cavities removed, it is important that they continue brushing and flossing vigilantly, to minimize the chances of more decay or infections from occurring.  

Talk To Your Round Rock, TX Pediatric Dentist About Dental Fillings

If you have questions about cavities and fillings, we are here to help. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, please contact your Round Rock, TX, pediatric dentist, Dr. Thames, by calling 512-733-5311.