Tooth Decay in Kids: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Tooth decay, also known as cavities, is a common dental problem among children. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode the enamel of teeth. If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss.

Understanding Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is caused by a complex interplay of factors. Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugary foods and drinks, producing acids that erode the enamel of teeth. Excessive consumption of sugary substances provides these bacteria the fuel they need to thrive. A lack of brushing teeth twice daily, regular flossing, and poor oral hygiene can cause bacteria to build up and cause tooth decay. Additionally, a dry mouth, which can result from medications, illness, or other factors, can increase the risk of tooth decay because saliva helps neutralise acids in the mouth.

Impact on Children's Oral Health

Tooth decay can profoundly affect a child's oral health. The pain and discomfort associated with toothaches can make it difficult for children to eat, sleep, and concentrate. Untreated tooth decay can lead to infections, spreading to other parts of the body. In severe cases, tooth decay can result in tooth loss, negatively impacting a child's appearance, speech, and chewing ability. You can introduce teeth brushing when your baby has their first tooth (around six months). Our Baby Training Tooth Brush Set is a great product to start with. It's a three-step toothbrush system that caters to each stage of your baby's oral development. The three-step process starts with helping the baby hold and get used to a toothbrush and progresses to using a real toothbrush once all their milk teeth have come in. The Training Toothbrush Set is best used with a fluoride-free toothpaste like Pigeon Baby Toothgel. Our reviewer, Grace, commented on our Grape flavoured tooth gel, writing:

“Love - So handy for teething! Smells great and doesn’t taste medicinal.”

Similarly, Christina27 said:

“Our child enjoys brushing his teeth because of the flavoured toothpaste. He loves the taste, makes the task easier.”

What are the Symptoms of Tooth Decay?

There can be an array of symptoms when dealing with tooth decay. The most common are the following: 

- Pain: Children may experience pain or sensitivity when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods.

- Visible cavities: In advanced cases, cavities may be visible as dark spots or holes in the teeth.

- Bad breath: Decaying teeth can produce an unpleasant odour.

- Difficulty eating: If the decay is severe, it can make eating painful or difficult.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay during Childhood?

Preventing children’s tooth decay is essential for long-term oral health. Here are some tips and products to help:

- Brush twice a day: Encourage your child to brush their teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes each time.

- Floss daily: Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque from between teeth.

- Limit sugary foods and drinks: Reduce your child's intake of sugary foods and beverages, including candies, sodas, and fruit juices.

- See a dentist regularly: Schedule regular dental check-ups for your child to detect and treat tooth decay early.

- Use fluoride: Ensure your child receives adequate fluoride through toothpaste, drinking water, or fluoride treatments from a dentist.

- Consider dental sealants: Dental sealants are a protective coating that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth to prevent decay.

- Choose a child-friendly toothbrush: A soft-bristled toothbrush that is the right size for your child's mouth can make brushing more enjoyable.

- Use a fluoride mouthwash: A fluoride mouthwash can help kill bacteria and strengthen teeth.

How to Treat Tooth Decay in Kids:

Tooth decay can be treated in various ways, depending on the severity of the cavity. For small cavities, a dentist can remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill it with a material such as composite resin. If the cavity is large or the tooth is severely damaged, a crown may be necessary to restore the tooth's structure. A root canal may sometimes be required to treat a tooth with severe decay or infection. However, if a tooth is beyond repair, extraction may be the only option.

Recommended products:

- Fluoride toothpaste: Look for a toothpaste with at least 1,000 parts per million (ppm) fluoride.

- Dental floss: Choose a floss that is gentle on your child's gums.

- Dental sealants: Ask your dentist about the benefits of dental sealants for your child.

- Child-friendly toothbrushes: Many colourful and fun toothbrushes are available for children. We also have many other kids' dental hygiene products.

- Fluoride mouthwash: Choose a mouthwash that is appropriate for your child's age.

More Dental Tips for Parents:

- Make dental care fun: Turn brushing and flossing into a game or routine to make it enjoyable for your child.

- Lead by example: Children learn by watching their parents. Demonstrate good oral hygiene habits yourself.

- Avoid sharing utensils: Sharing utensils can spread bacteria and contribute to tooth decay.

- Consider fluoride treatments: Talk to your dentist about fluoride treatments, which can help strengthen tooth enamel.

- Address thumb-sucking and pacifier use: Prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use can affect tooth alignment and contribute to tooth decay.

By following these kids teeth brushing tips and seeking regular dental care, you can help your child maintain healthy teeth and gums throughout their childhood.

For more information on children’s oral hygiene, our My First Dental Hygiene page features some videos on oral health for kids and discusses setting the foundation for good oral hygiene.