How Do I Know If My Kid Has a Cavity? Part Two

Posted March 25, 2016

Now that you know common symptoms of a cavity, like grey lines, discomfort and sensitivity to hot or cold foods, are you wondering what to do if your kid develops one? It can still be difficult to diagnose a cavity, at home, especially if your children are not very observant or good at telling you when they experience dental symptoms like these. That is yet another reason regular dental checkups are so important. By taking your children to see the dentist every six months, you reduce their chances of developing cavities, in the first place. Just as importantly, though, you also increase the chance of catching any cavities that do exist, early, which can mean the difference between simple and extensive restorative treatment.

Six-month Checkups Are Great for Preventive and Restorative Care

If your child is complaining about dental discomfort or pain, it’s best to schedule a dental appointment as quickly as possible. This is especially true if it has been more than six months since his or her last dental checkup.
Remember, most people need to visit the dentist at least twice a year, to prevent unsightly and potentially damaging plaque buildup. So be sure to make those appointments a priority, and schedule an additional appointment if you think your child might have a cavity.

Caught early, most cavities can be treated with simple dental fillings. These help protect the tooth from further decay, and can also help prevent painful infections from developing in weakened teeth. Left untreated, however, a cavity can lead to a tooth infection, that may require far more extensive treatment, like a root canal. This is why it’s important to schedule an appointment with the dentist if you even suspect your child might have a cavity.