A serious condition... but preventable
Early childhood caries is one of the most common dental problems in young children. It can appear very early, sometimes as soon as the first teeth erupt, and progress rapidly if left untreated. Contrary to popular belief, baby teeth are not “less important” than permanent teeth: they play a key role in chewing, speech development, and the overall health of the child.
At Dentown Dental Center, we pay special attention to the prevention and detection of this condition, while educating parents about the importance of good daily habits.
Early Childhood Caries
What is early childhood caries?
Early childhood caries occurs when one or more baby teeth show signs of demineralization or decay before the age of 6. This condition often begins with small white spots on the surface of the teeth, which may go unnoticed by the untrained eye.
The condition can progress rapidly, especially when certain habits are present: bottle feeding at bedtime, frequent consumption of juice or sugary foods, inadequate or non-existent dental hygiene. Once established, tooth decay can lead to pain, infections, and feeding difficulties.
Signs to watch for
Certain signs may indicate the presence of tooth decay in young children. As soon as these signs appear, a consultation is necessary.
- Whitish, yellowish, or brownish spots on the teeth;
- Sensitivity or pain during meals;
- Persistent bad breath;
- Refusal to brush teeth or open mouth.
The most common causes
Early childhood tooth decay has many causes, but some are more common than others:
- Prolonged bottle feeding or breastfeeding at bedtime without cleaning the teeth afterwards.
- Frequent consumption of juice, sweetened milk, or sticky snacks.
- Irregular brushing, especially in the evening, or failure to brush at this crucial time.
- A dental appointment that is too late, often after symptoms have appeared.
Our role is to support families with a preventive approach, without making them feel guilty.
Prevention rather than cure
Prevention is the best approach to avoiding early childhood caries. Here are some tips that we regularly share with parents:
- Clean teeth as soon as they appear, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of toothpaste suitable for the child's age.
- Introduce regular brushing as soon as the child is able to do so (with supervision).
- Start flossing as soon as teeth touch each other.
- Avoid sugary drinks or bottles during the night.
- Schedule a first dental visit within 6 months of the first tooth erupting.
During the consultation, we tailor our recommendations to your family's situation and offer simple solutions that are easy to implement.
Care tailored to young children
If tooth decay is detected, we will guide you toward the best solution based on the child's age, level of cooperation, and the extent of the problem. Our procedures are performed gently, in collaboration with parents, and always aim to preserve oral health while ensuring the child's comfort.
Our goal: for every little patient to leave with a smile... and the desire to come back!
Make an Appointment Today
Looking for a dentist in Saint-Léonard who provides comprehensive and accessible care? Our team is here for you. Call us at (514) 657-2001 or book your appointment online. We look forward to taking care of your smile.