How Can Cavities Affect A Young Child’s Developing Smile?

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By Wright Smiles

Part of caring for your child means encouraging them to pick up good habits that help them care for themselves. In order to protect their oral health, you should encourage them to brush and floss thoroughly on a daily basis in order to avoid cavities. While tooth decay is never an enjoyable experience, problems with cavities that occur at an early age can potentially complicate the growth and development of your child’s smile! In time, an untreated cavity that affects a primary tooth may affect the secondary tooth as well, or interfere with its eruption. You can provide protection for your child’s smile through good preventive care at home, and through pediatric dental visits. Our Southlake, TX dentist’s office provides services for patients of all ages, which means we can be there for everyone in your family!

A Child’s Primary Teeth Are Vulnerable To Tooth Decay

At every age, it is important to be aware of just how serious tooth decay can be. While adults and kids are both protected by the strength of their tooth enamel, kids can face a few extra hurdles when it comes to avoiding cavities. They are still learning how to care for their teeth, and may not understand how to effectively fight the buildup of bacteria and food debris. Kids often have stronger cravings for sweeter drinks and snacks, which can further expose them to risks for decay.

Kids Can Lack A Clear Understanding Of Why Oral Hygiene Matters

You (hopefully) understand that without a proper smile care routine in place, you are vulnerable to potentially serious dental troubles. Your smile can be negatively affected by decay, and you can develop an infected tooth that causes serious pain until a root canal procedure is performed. Even if you warn your kids about cavities, they may not appreciate just how serious the problem can become. Because of this, they can be less worried about what might happen if they have “just one more” piece of candy, or if they skip brushing their teeth before bed.

Good Habits At An Early Age Can Have Long-Term Benefits

If dental problems occur at an early age, it may affect the development of a child’s oral structures, leading to cosmetic and oral health concerns. However, if they receive guidance on proper oral care at home, and enjoy access to dental exams, they can pick up good habits that they sustain into adulthood. In other words, the work you put in now to help a young child protect their teeth can continue to protect them for years to come.

Our Southlake, TX Dentist’s Office Can Help Patients Of All Ages Care For Their Smiles

At our Southlake, TX dentist’s office, patients can look forward to quality care from Dr. Wright, Dr. Heron, and our team!

Call our to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.