Decayed teeth in children are an increasingly common problem and are one of the main reasons why the youngest patients go to the dentist. Although many parents consider milk teeth to be “temporary” and therefore not terrible if they deteriorate, the truth is completely different. The health of milk teeth directly affects the development of the face, chewing, speech, nutrition, and even the emergence of permanent teeth.
How decayed teeth occur, how to recognize them and what parents can do to prevent this problem – we explain all this in detail below.
Why do children’s teeth decay?
Children are much more prone to tooth decay than adults, and the main reason is thinner enamel of milk teeth and immaturity of oral habits. Decayed teeth are most often caused by a combination of poor hygiene, a diet high in sugars, and constant exposure to bacteria.
Poor oral hygiene
The most common cause, children usually do not brush their teeth thoroughly enough, skip evening brushing, and parents often think that “just a little is enough to pass the brush.” Baby teeth require the same attention as permanent teeth.
A diet full of sugar
Juices, sweets, biscuits, chocolates, but also hidden sugars in cereals, fruit drinks and dairy desserts lead to a rapid multiplication of acid-producing bacteria and damage milk teeth.
Sleeping with a bottle.
One of the biggest causes of tooth decay in children. If a child falls asleep with a bottle of sweetened milk, juice or tea, the sugar remains on the teeth for hours, which leads to the so-called “circular caries”.
Genetics and microflora of the mouth
Some children have naturally lower enamel resistance or are exposed to a higher number of cariogenic bacteria.
Not enough saliva
Dehydration, mouth breathing, and certain medications can reduce the secretion of saliva, which naturally protects teeth from cavities.
How to recognize decayed teeth in children
Symptoms are often noticed late in children because toddlers do not complain of pain until the caries has penetrated deeply.
The most common signs are:
- white or dark spots on the teeth
- Holes and dents in the milk teeth
- Sensitivity to sweet, cold or hot
- avoiding chewing on one side
- bad breath
- Nervousness, especially at night.
- swelling or redness of the gums in advanced stages
Decayed teeth in children often progress very quickly, so regular check-ups are crucial.
How caries progresses in children
Caries of baby teeth progresses much faster than that of permanent teeth, because the enamel is thinner and the dentin is softer. The process usually proceeds as follows:
1. Initial stage – white spots
These are the first enamel damage. At this stage, caries can be stopped without drilling, fluoride and better hygiene.
2 . Superficial caries
Tiny holes are formed. The child usually has no pain, but bacteria have already entered the tooth.
3 . Medium-deep caries
Caries spreads to the dentin, there is tenderness and occasional pain.
4 . Deep caries
The damage reaches the pulp, where the nerves are located. The child feels a lot of pain, especially at night or when touched.
5 . Abscess
If left untreated, the infection spreads to the bone and surrounding tissue. This is an emergency and requires immediate dental attention.
Decayed teeth in children are not only an aesthetic problem – they can cause serious infections, fever and eating disorders.
Why it is important to treat milk teeth
Many parents mistakenly think that milk teeth do not need to be repaired because “they will fall out anyway”. That’s a big mistake.
Here’s why baby teeth need to be treated:
1. Provide space for permanent teeth
If a baby tooth is lost prematurely, it leads to displacement of other teeth and subsequent orthodontic problems.
2 . They are important for speech development
Damaged or extracted teeth can disrupt the correct pronunciation of sounds.
3. Allow normal chewing
Children with sore teeth often refuse food, which leads to poor nutrition.
4. Prevent the spread of infection
Untreated tooth decay can cause abscess, pain and systemic complications.
5 . Impact on self-esteem
Children often hide their smiles when their front baby teeth are decayed or discolored.
That’s why baby teeth need to be cared for and repaired just as seriously as permanent teeth.
How to treat decayed teeth in children
Therapy depends on the age, depth of caries and general cooperation of the child.
Filling of milk teeth
The most common method when caries is not too deep. Special materials are used that are suitable for children.
Treatment of the canal of milk teeth
It is done when caries affects the pulp. This treatment preserves the tooth from falling out naturally and prevents inflammation.
Crowns for milk teeth
If the tooth is badly damaged, a metal or aesthetic crown is placed to protect it until it falls out.
Tooth extraction
Only if the tooth is completely destroyed or the infection is severe. After extraction, it is often necessary to install a space holder.
Preventive treatments
- fluoride gels and varnishes
- silanti (protective covering)
- professional cleaning
Prevention is the best way to avoid repair.
How parents can prevent tooth decay in children
Prevention begins much earlier than most parents think.
Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears.
Use a soft children’s toothbrush and paste with fluoride in the amount of rice grains.
Control your sugar intake
Sugar should be an occasional part of your diet, not a daily one.
Don’t sleep with a bottle
The best combination for children’s teeth is sweetened milk or juice before bedtime.
Regular visits to the dentist
The first visit is recommended as early as about 12 months of age, and then every 6 months.
Use dental floss when your teeth start to touch each other
Two fused surfaces are the most common site of caries in children.
Lead by example
If parents have good habits, it’s easier for children to adopt them.
When to visit the dentist urgently?
Schedule an appointment immediately if you notice:
- Island
- Manure
- severe pain that interferes with sleep
- discoloration of teeth (black, brown, gray)
- unpleasant smell from the mouth
- The child refuses food because of pain
These are signs of advanced tooth decay or infection and require immediate intervention.
Decayed teeth in children are a serious, but completely solvable problem if detected and treated in time. Baby teeth are important for the healthy development of a child and should not be neglected. Proper hygiene, regular check-ups and healthy habits are the best protection against tooth decay.
Take care of your child’s teeth today – because healthy teeth mean a healthy smile in the future.
If you notice any changes in your child’s teeth or want a preventive examination, contact the dental office Dr Andjelkovic in Novi Sad.
A professional team with experience in working with children will provide your little one with a painless examination, timely treatment and advice on proper dental care. Make an appointment and give your child a healthy start.