Hey! I'm Frankie, and welcome to my dental advice blog. I'm a foodie and I love sweet treats, but I also love my teeth! It can be hard to keep your dental health in top condition when you've got a sweet tooth, but it's not impossible. Over the years, I've learned tons of great advice from friends, family members and dentists, and I'd love to share it with you. My blog is here to give you all the tips and tricks you need to stay free of decay and other tooth problems without giving up all your favourite foods and snacks.
Tooth decay in toddlers can be caused by eating foods high in sugar or refined carbohydrates, which can lead to the levels of bacteria in the mouth increasing, as these foods provide a food source to bacteria. High levels of bacteria can increase the acidity of your child's mouth, and this causes erosion to the delicate enamel protecting their milk teeth.
You may not think losing a milk tooth due to decay is particularly serious, as your child will still have healthy adult teeth waiting to erupt in a few years. However, losing a milk tooth too early can alter the alignment of your child's teeth, as the remaining milk teeth begin to spread into the space. This can lead to changes in your child's bite and affect how their adult teeth grow in, so being able to spot signs of decay in your young child can allow you to act quickly and prevent unnecessary tooth loss. Read on to learn about 3 common signs your toddler has tooth decay.
Your Child Develops Spots On Their Teeth
White spots on the teeth are an early sign of decay. The spots can appear before your child experiences any tooth pain, and as the decay worsens and impacts the soft pulp in the centre of the tooth, the white spots will darken to brown and even black. If you notice any areas of discolouration on your child's teeth, book a check-up.
Your Child Develops Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity can occur for a number of reasons, such as trauma to the teeth from a bump or fall, and it can be indicative of tooth decay. If your child suddenly seems to experience tooth sensitivity to hot or cold drinks and foods, damage to their tooth enamel from decay could be causing tooth nerves to become sensitised. Tooth sensitivity tends to clear up quickly after the decay is treated.
Your Child Develops Mouth Pain When Eating
Tooth decay can cause the affected tooth and surrounding area to become sore when biting down. If your toddler indicates they have a sore mouth at mealtimes or if they begin refusing food, tooth decay could be the cause. Try to get decay addressed quickly when a toddler is refusing food, as they can quickly develop a long-term aversion to eating due to not fully understanding the food is not what's causing the pain.
If you suspect your child has developed tooth decay, contact a local dentist and schedule a dental check-up for them as soon as possible.
Share24 August 2021
