Spotting a cavity isn’t always easy, especially if one forms between your child’s teeth. Dentists rely on advanced digital imaging and a keen eye while performing visual examinations to detect early signs of dental decay and caries. But is there any way to tell if your child has a cavity that needs repair? Are there things you can do at home to help prevent this kind of problem? Read on to discover what tips and techniques you can use to better protect your child’s smile.
Signs Indicating an Interproximal Cavity Exists
An interproximal cavity is commonly referred to as a cavity between two teeth. These are often hard to detect, unlike those that form on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
If you notice that your child is complaining about increased sensitivity while eating anything cold or sweet, or they have trouble chewing on the side of their mouth that contains the cavity, it may indicate that restorative care is required to address an interproximal cavity.
What a Dentist Can Do to Repair the Problem
When taking your child to the dentist for an interproximal cavity, there’s a good chance they will recommend one of several treatment options. The one they choose will depend on how much damage the cavity has caused.
Recommended restorative services may include:
- Dental Filling: A tooth-colored filling can repair the enamel after clearing out all diseased portions of the tooth.
- Root Canal/Pulp Therapy: If the decay extends to the inner portion of a tooth and causes an infection within the pulp, a root canal or pulp therapy will be required. This removes the diseased pulp to alleviate pain and saves the tooth from extraction.
- Dental Crown: If the cavity extends to the dentin layer, a customized crown can offer maximum protection while the underlying tooth strengthens over time.
- Tooth Extraction: If damage is too severe, the only possible option may be tooth extraction. By removing the diseased area, the gap can be filled with a dental bridge or partial denture.
Ways to Prevent Cavities at Home
Lowering your child’s chances of needing restorative dentistry requires that they take proper care of their teeth and gums at home. You can help them do this by:
- Making sure they are practicing good oral hygiene each day. This means they must brush twice daily for two minutes, floss at least once before bed, and rinse regularly.
- Keeping healthier, nutrient-rich foods around the house as opposed to sweets and carbohydrates that can cause cavities.
- Ensuring they are drinking plenty of water instead of sodas, energy drinks, or fruit juices, as this will help flush out harmful cavity-causing bacteria.
- Keeping their regularly scheduled six-month dental checkups and cleanings with their pediatric dentist.
Your child’s smile deserves superior care both at home and in the dentist’s office. By helping them adopt good oral hygiene habits and incorporate healthier food options into their diet, they can reduce their risk of needing restorative treatment – an outcome that can have a positive effect on your wallet.
About the Author
Dr. Marie Tremblay’s 20+ years of experience in pediatric dentistry make her a family favorite at Treehouse Pediatric Dentistry. Offering preventive treatment to minimize the risk of cavities and gum disease, she also provides restorative care when a cavity forms and needs repair. No matter what type of service is required (i.e., dental filling, dental crown, etc.), we can ensure the health of your child’s smile so that it continues to grow and develop as it should. If your child needs a dental checkup or complains of discomfort when trying to eat, visit our website or call (413) 779-3136.