Many parents wonder whether they should treat cavities in baby teeth since they usually fall out. Because infant teeth are considered temporary, they believe that cavities are also temporary. Dr. Ravneet Kaur, widely considered the best dentist for children in Gurgaon, says this is somehow true, but it is still important to treat cavities in baby teeth. Let’s understand why.
Is it Worth Treating Cavities in Baby Teeth?
Yes, treating cavities in baby teeth is considered vital. This will support the healthy development of the child's teeth as they grow, as well as prevent bacteria and tooth decay from damaging the child's teeth and gums.
Why Should Cavities in Baby Teeth Be Treated?
The following are some of the reasons why it is worth treating cavities in baby teeth:
Cavities are Painful
Cavities might be difficult to find when they are first developing. However, bacteria make their way into a tooth's structure, especially in baby teeth. This includes nerves inside the tooth pulp and beneath the enamel. Pain will increase with the severity of the cavity. By treating the cavity, one won’t feel any pain, and the bacteria will not damage the tooth any more.
Pulling the Teeth Early Causes Tooth Misalignment
At times, pulling a baby tooth with a cavity is considered an effective option. However, this should only be done if a permanent tooth is appearing. A child's baby teeth not only help them chew solid meals and talk more clearly, but they also aid in jawbone development. If the teeth have been missing for an extended period of time, the pressure on the jaw will be unevenly distributed, and the jawbone may fail to develop properly. This can lead to complications later, when the permanent teeth begin to grow. Therefore, it is preferable to treat a cavity in a baby tooth and let it fall out when it is ready rather than pulling it too soon.
Untreated Cavities Pose a Risk for Bad Habits
Children learn brushing and flossing from their parents. They also learn whether cavities and tooth decay are serious issues or not. Putting off a dental visit or filling may give the child the impression that the dentist and dental health are unimportant. Alternatively, the child may perceive the dentist as terrifying and threatening. By addressing cavities as they appear, parents are teaching their children that oral health is vital and that the dentist is not scary. This will significantly assist the child as they get older. Even though the baby teeth fall out on their own in some time, one must consider all the reasons discussed above that explain why it is worth treating cavities in baby teeth.
Seek Help From Dr. Ravneet Kaur, A Prominent Orthodontist in Gurgaon
If a child is ready for their first dental visit or parents believe their child has cavities, they should consult Dr. Ravneet Kaur, a well-known orthodontist in Gurgaon. The expert dentist offers several pediatric procedures at Smiles By Dr. Ravneet Kaur's clinic for children, such as pits and fissures, baby tooth extraction, pulpectomy, and many more.
