Seriously. It seems like every time I take my 4 yr old to the dentist he has a new cavity. These are primary teeth. I just figure that if it gets too bad the tooth will be lost and big deal it’s a primary tooth. I have cut him back on soda which he wants to drink every day. It’s probably a habit that I never should have let him get into. I am just wondering if filling kids cavities on baby teeth that are going to fall out is a waste of money. Thanks. Breael
Breael– Saving primary (baby) teeth that have cavities with dental fillings is a good idea. Baby teeth affect the way permanent teeth grow. Missing teeth can cause remaining teeth to start moving into the wrong position, so getting cavities filled is a protection.
It is estimated that 4 million preschoolers have at least one cavity. Cavities are caused by bacteria in the mouth. Babies are not born with the bacteria, but it can be spread to them by eating from the same spoon as your child, sharing the same cup, or using the same toothbrush. The bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar. So it’s a good idea to limit sugary drinks and food for your son. Daily flossing between the teeth and brushing the teeth twice daily help remove cavity-causing bacteria. Some dentists use sealants—a protective coating that is brushed over the teeth to keep out harmful bacteria.
A cavity that is left untreated will grow. The tooth can start to smell bad, and it can eventually fall out. The missing tooth can cause permanent teeth to grow sideways or in the wrong position. Teeth near the missing one will start to drift into the empty space.
When teeth start to shift or grow in the wrong position, braces may be needed later in life. One way this future expense can be prevented by avoiding the things that promote cavities, or by saving decayed teeth with dental fillings.
You can be confident that your son’s dentist is thinking about his long-term oral health.
This post is sponsored by Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Collins of Sherwood Dental Care.