Why Cavities Are Such a Common Concern

Posted May 12, 2020

The focus on cavities in your child’s routine dental care is an especially important one. That’s because the tooth decay that causes it affects more than 90% of people to some degree by the time their adults. The good news is that treating cavities is typically easy, and preventing it can be successful with the right care and maintenance. Today, we examine why cavities are such a common concern despite being highly preventable, and why your child may rely on your help to protect their smiles from them.

Because their cause is common

The most basic reason why cavities are common is because they can develop naturally. Tooth decay, which is the tooth infection that causes a cavity to form, can develop when too many oral bacteria remain too long on your child’s teeth. In the form of dental plaque, oral bacteria can release substances like acids that weaken your child’s tooth enamel and expose the more vulnerable main tooth structure. This exposure can lead to oral bacteria infecting the tooth structure, leading to tooth decay and cavity development. Unfortunately, this process can begin and progress before you or your child realizes it.

Because they form before you know it

As the enamel around your child’s tooth gets weaker under attacks from oral bacteria, the tooth may grow increasingly more sensitive. This may warn of cavity development before the enamel becomes completely compromised. However, tooth sensitivity isn’t always guaranteed, and children won’t always express when they’re teeth feel sensitive. Failing to recognize and address the early warning signs of enamel erosion is an important factor in cavities being allowed to form in full. Yet, with proper care and maintenance both at home and at the dentist’s office, your child has a greater chance of detecting decay in its earliest stages.

Because children need help preventing it

Because cavities and tooth decay develop from oral bacteria, good hygiene and preventive care is necessary to control these bacteria and protect your child’s teeth from decay. In their early years, children can have trouble getting used to brushing and flossing effectively every day, even after they’ve learned and memorized the basics. It’s important to encourage your child and help them master the routine by practicing good dental hygiene together each day.

Protect your child’s smile from cavities

Cavities may be a common concern for children, but you can do a lot more than you might realize to help protect your child’s smile from them. To learn more, schedule an appointment by calling Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda in Dallas, TX today at 214-321-4880. We proudly serve patients who live around Casa Linda and all surrounding Dallas communities.