Do Dentists Fill Cavities in Baby Teeth?

Has your child’s first baby tooth sprouted? As soon as it appears, you should start brushing your child’s smile every day. Use a smear of toothpaste the size of a grain of rice on a baby toothbrush. One great option is Dr. Brown’s flamingo toothbrush. Begin flossing when your baby has at least 2 teeth touching. A gentle floss pick makes this job easier.

But sometimes teeth still develop decay despite your best efforts! Early-stage tooth decay is temporary weakening of the enamel, the outer layer of teeth. This area will worsen into a cavity if it is not fortified through remineralization. Remineralization can reverse mild decay. Fluoridated toothpaste, tap water, professional fluoride treatments, and foods high in calcium can help remineralize teeth.

What Is a Cavity?

A cavity is a permanently damaged area of a tooth that manifests as a tiny hole. Cavities are caused by acids and toxins produced by plaque, a sticky and slimy accumulation of bacteria on teeth.

Baby teeth have thinner enamel than permanent teeth, which results in less time to reverse the decay process through remineralization. Sugary snacks, juice, and a poor oral hygiene routine can increase a child’s risk of developing decay and cavities on their baby teeth.

Do Cavities on Baby Teeth Need to Be Filled?

Parents may mistakenly believe that baby teeth aren’t important since they eventually fall out. However, baby teeth assist with several essential functions, including:

• Chewing and proper nutrition
• Language development, smiling, and social confidence
• Jaw, facial, and adult tooth development

Strong and healthy baby teeth are extremely beneficial for children until their permanent teeth are ready to grow in. Our team at Safari Children’s Dentistry and Braces in San Antonio offers routine cleanings and fluoride treatments to help prevent tooth decay, as well as pediatric tooth-colored fillings if your child does develop a cavity.

Pediatric Dental Care in San Antonio, TX

Even though baby teeth are not your child’s permanent teeth, we usually want to help your child keep them until they are ready to fall out on their own. We will evaluate your child’s tooth to determine if it needs to be repaired with a filling.

At Safari Children’s Dentistry and Braces, we offer comprehensive oral healthcare to help your child’s smile stay healthy. Please contact us to schedule your child’s routine appointment!