Baby teeth eventually fall out, so does a cavity in one really need fixing?

It’s an understandable question for parents. After all, why treat a tooth that the Tooth Fairy will eventually collect anyway? The answer is that cavities on baby teeth can still affect your child’s comfort and oral health. Depending on the tooth, the extent of the decay, and how long it will be before the tooth naturally falls out, your dentist may recommend treating the cavity rather than waiting. 

Here’s why taking care of cavities on baby teeth matters, even when those teeth will eventually make way for permanent ones. 

Why Do Cavities on Baby Teeth Need Treatment?

A cavity is an area of tooth decay, and decay can continue to progress if it isn’t addressed. What begins as a small cavity may grow, cause sensitivity or pain, or lead to an infection. 

Just like adults, children can experience toothaches that make it uncomfortable to eat, sleep, concentrate at school, or simply go about their day. Visiting a children’s dentist early can help address the cavity, protect the tooth, and prevent your child from dealing with unnecessary pain.

Baby Teeth Have a Big Job to Do

Baby teeth may be temporary, but they have an important job to do while they’re around.

Healthy baby teeth help children chew comfortably and support speech development. They also act as placeholders for the permanent teeth developing underneath them. If a baby tooth is lost too early because of severe decay, neighbouring teeth may begin moving into the empty space, potentially affecting how the permanent tooth comes in.

Some baby teeth also stick around longer than parents might expect. Baby molars, for example, may remain in place until around age 10 to 12. That can be a long time to leave an untreated cavity. 

Does Every Cavity in a Baby Tooth Need a Filling?

Not necessarily. How a children’s dentist recommends handling a cavity depends on your child’s individual situation.

If a cavity is very small and the tooth is already close to falling out naturally, your dentist may recommend monitoring it rather than placing a filling. On the other hand, a larger cavity, a painful tooth, or decay in a tooth that needs to remain in place for several more years may require treatment.

The location and extent of the decay, your child’s age, symptoms, and when the tooth is expected to fall out can all factor into the decision. 

How Cavities on Baby Teeth Are Treated

Treatment depends on how far the decay has progressed.

Very early decay may sometimes be managed with fluoride and changes to your child’s oral hygiene routine. When a cavity has progressed further, we may recommend a filling to remove the decayed portion and restore the tooth.

For more extensive decay, other treatment may be necessary. In some cases, a crown can help restore and protect a weakened tooth. If decay has reached the inner pulp of the tooth, additional treatment may be needed. A severely damaged tooth that cannot be restored may need to be removed.

A children’s dentist can explain the available treatment options and recommend an approach based on your child’s individual needs and oral health.

Helping Prevent Cavities in Baby Teeth

Of course, preventing tooth decay in the first place is always preferable. Parents can help protect growing smiles by:

  • Helping children brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
  • Introducing flossing once neighbouring teeth begin touching
  • Limiting frequent sugary snacks and drinks
  • Encouraging water as an everyday drink
  • Keeping up with regular dental checkups and cleanings
  • Asking your dentist whether fluoride treatments or dental sealants may benefit your child

At Yankee Valley Dental, regular dental visits also give our team a chance to spot early signs of decay before a small concern becomes a painful one! 

Healthy Baby Teeth Help Set the Stage for Healthy Adult Smiles

Those little teeth have plenty of work to do before the permanent ones arrive. Treating cavities in baby teeth can help your child eat comfortably, protect oral health, and maintain the space their adult teeth will eventually need. 

If you’ve noticed a dark spot, sensitivity, tooth pain, or another change in your child’s smile, you don’t have to determine on your own whether treatment is necessary. Our team at Yankee Valley Dental can take a closer look and explain the options based on your child’s needs.

We strive to create an environment where children can feel at ease. Our clinic prioritizes your child’s comfort while providing quality oral care. At Yankee Valley, we are your trusted children’s dental care provider. Book an appointment to learn more!