Tooth decay is a common condition affecting many children in the United States. Also known as cavities, tooth decay occurs when acids from bacteria attack the tooth’s enamel. Fortunately, when detected early, this condition can be repaired. But the symptoms of a cavity aren’t always as obvious as having a toothache. 

The health of your child’s teeth is crucial to their overall health, so parents need to know what to look for. There are several ways you can tell if your child has a cavity.       

What causes childhood cavities? 

If you’re a parent wondering, “How to tell if my child has a cavity,” it’s helpful to understand what causes tooth decay in children. This oral condition is caused primarily by bacteria, but other factors are involved. 

When sugary, starchy foods are left on the teeth, bacteria that usually live in the mouth change the debri into acids. Bacteria, acid, food, and saliva combine to form a sticky film on the teeth called plaque. The acids made by bacteria slowly eat away at the tooth enamel, creating a cavity.

All children naturally have bacteria in their mouths, putting them at risk for tooth decay. But these factors could increase their risk: 

• A diet high in carbohydrates
• Drinking water that has minimal or no fluoride 
• High levels of cavity-causing bacteria 
• Below-average saliva flow 

Poor at-home oral hygiene habits or avoiding routine visits to a pediatric dentist near Kearney, contribute to tooth decay.  

How do I  know if my child has a cavity? 

The best way to discover if your child has tooth decay is to visit the dentist, but even the most cared-for teeth are susceptible. Multiple signs will indicate the beginning of a cavity. Here are some of the most common signs or symptoms your child may have cavities.

1. White Spots or Discolored Teeth 

The early stages of tooth decay often appear as a white spot on the tooth. These are areas of mineral loss. You might not think it’s a problem when you first notice it because your child isn’t experiencing pain. However, when left untreated, the white spot can turn into a black or brown spot. If you detect a white spot on your child’s tooth, contact a pediatric dentist in Kearney.    

2. Hole or Pit in the Tooth 

One of the most obvious signs that your child is suffering from a cavity is a pit or hole in the tooth. However, sometimes these areas form between the teeth, making them difficult to see. 

Your child may feel the spot when they run their tongue over the tooth. By this stage of decay, there may be pain associated with it, requiring you to make an urgent dental appointment.   

3. Sensitivity to Foods 

Children love sugary, sweet foods. But if they are avoiding ice cream or lollipops, it could indicate they have a cavity. Hot or cold foods may also affect them, but why does this happen? 

As the tooth’s enamel wears down, it can affect the layer of tissue underneath, called dentin. This layer contains tiny, hollow tubes that send hot and cold sensations or acidic or sweet foods to stimulate the nerves inside the tooth. As a result, your child experiences pain and discomfort. 

4. Toothache

The most classic sign of a cavity is a toothache. Sometimes the pain comes on suddenly, like after eating or drinking. Other times, it is a constant, lingering ache that slowly escalates.    

Your child might be unable to trace the discomfort to a specific incident, but they know something is causing them pain. It will usually get worse when they bite down on food. This could point to a cavity if they mainly mention the discomfort around mealtime.

5. No Symptoms 

Every child is different, just like every cavity is unique. Some children don’t experience symptoms when they are affected by tooth decay. You’ll only know if your child has a cavity by routinely taking them to a dentist for a dental evaluation.

What to do when my child has a cavity? 

Proper treatment is the best thing for a child with a cavity. The treatment needed depends on the severity of the decay, as well as your child’s age and general health. The most common treatment is a filling. The dentist removes the diseased portion of the tooth and places an FDA-approved dental material in the hole.  

Prevent childhood dental decay with regular checkups. 

How to tell if my child has a cavity? It’s simple. Schedule routine dental visits with Pediatric Dental Specialists for a thorough evaluation and cleaning. Our team is happy to answer your pediatric dentistry questions and help your child learn good oral hygiene habits that will preserve their smile for life.