What to Do If Your Child Has a Cavity — and How to Prevent
What to Do If Your Child Has a Cavity — and How to Prevent Cavities are one of the most common dental problems in toddlers and children. Also referred to as tooth decay, a cavity is a permanently damaged area in a tooth. They can develop in your child’s primary or baby teeth, and if so, you might shrug it off — your child will eventually lose these teeth, right? So what does it matter? But you shouldn’t ignore a cavity. Here’s what you need to know about cavities in kids, including common causes, treatment options, and prevention tips. What causes cavities in kids? Cavities occur when a buildup of dental plaque eats at tooth enamel and causes a hole. Plaque is a sticky substance that covers teeth, and it forms when bacteria in the mouth combines with food, acid, and saliva. Since regular brushing and flossing can prevent a buildup of plaque, cavities often develop when children don’t properly brush their teeth. Children should brush their te...