Some parents neglect their toddler's teeth because they mistakenly believe that because their toddler isn't eating candy, she doesn't need dental care. However, even milk and juices contain sugars that can be harmful to your toddler's teeth. If these sugars are not removed by brushing, your toddler can develop tooth decay.
Causes
Tooth decay in toddlers is caused by not brushing as well as by going to sleep with a bottle or a pacifier dipped in honey or another substance, according to the American Dental Association. Sometimes your toddler develops tooth decay despite your best efforts to keep his teeth clean. Some toddlers are more prone to tooth decay than others. For example, if you or the other parent is prone to tooth decay, your toddler is more likely to experience tooth decay.
Treatment
The treatment your dentist chooses will depend on the nature and extent of your toddler's tooth decay. Even though your toddler's teeth are baby teeth, the dentist will still work to preserve them. Like cavities in adults, most minor cavities in toddlers are treated by drilling out the cavity and filling it with a white composite resin or silver. If your child has a fractured tooth or more extensive damage, the dentist might drill out the damaged area and insert a crown to cap the tooth.
Prevention
The best treatment for tooth decay in toddlers is to prevent it in the first place. The American Dental Association recommends brushing your toddler's teeth twice a day as well as flossing. Do not put your child to bed with a bottle or dip her pacifier in anything because the sugars from the milk, juice or other food stay on his teeth as he sleeps. Regular visits to the dentist can also prevent problems before they begin. Your toddler should visit the dentist for the first time by age 1 and then have regular check-ups for the rest of his life.
When to Consult a Dentist
If you notice that your toddler is developing cavities, or if she says that her teeth hurt, visit your dentist as soon as you can. Foul-smelling breath or discolored teeth can also be warning signs for tooth decay. You can fix his dental problems and prevent future problems from starting with the help of the dentist. Do not be afraid to call your dentist whenever you have questions or if you notice anything unusual with your toddler's teeth.
