Parents have one of the most difficult jobs out there. Not only do they have to constantly care for, protect, and teach their children, but they also have to pay attention to the signs that may indicate that their little ones are not well. And, it can be rather difficult to tell if your child has any sort of pain when they can't communicate and tell you exactly what bothers them.
While some conditions can be a bit easier to identify than others, when it comes to oral health, it requires a proactive approach. Don't assume that just because your child is too young to speak they can't suffer from tooth decay. It can happen, and you need to pay attention to the signs and offer them proper infant care.
Here's what you need to know.
This is a common sign of a cavity, but in the case of infants, it can sometimes be hard to tell if the pain has to do with decay or if it's caused by a new tooth breaking through.
If possible, ask your child to indicate the area where the pain is coming from. Moreover, if your little one is in pain throughout the day, even when they are not eating or drinking, then that can be a sign of cavities.
If you notice white or brown spots on the surface of the teeth, then that is usually a clear indication of a cavity. If left untreated, the whole tooth will eventually turn black.
If your child is too young to let you know that they are in pain while chewing, there are other ways to tell.
For example, if you notice that they are eating less food than usual, then it would be a good idea to check their teeth too.
This is one of the most obvious signs that your child is suffering from cavities. All you have to do is ask the little one to open their mouth and examine their teeth.
Sometimes, instead of holes, there may be cracks or chips. These can also be signs of cavities although, in some instances, they can simply be caused by accidents.
The best way to ensure that your child's teeth are healthy and free of cavities is to brush their teeth thoroughly every day and to schedule regular dentist appointments since the first tooth erupts.
We know that a visit to the doctor can be stressful for your young one. That's why, at The Little Royals, we make sure to offer compassionate and comprehensive dental care for kids of all ages, from infants to teens.
Contact us now to reserve your royal appointment.