Smile Signs: What Do Cavities Look Like in Kids?

As a parent, we always try to keep our children’s teeth healthy and strong by brushing and flossing regularly (and eating the right snacks). However, despite our best efforts, cavities can sometimes crop up as our kiddos grow. 

Cavities are a common dental problem among children and can cause discomfort, pain, and even tooth loss if left untreated. Fast, effective treatment is the secret to stopping caries in their tracks! But to do that, you have to know the signs.

While you may know to watch out for tooth pain or jaw selling, there are more than a few signs that your child may have a cavity. To help you combat cavities as soon as they show themselves, we’ve put together a guide to talk about what cavities look like in kids (and the top five signs that you’ve got a problem on your hands). 

A Terrible Toothache

What’s the most obvious sign of a cavity? You guessed it – it’s a toothache! 

Your child may complain of pain or discomfort while eating or brushing teeth. While some tooth pain can be normal (especially when teething or getting adult chompers), a persistent toothache could signify a new cavity. The pain may be mild or severe and can come and go throughout the day. 

If your child complains of a toothache for over a day or two, make an appointment with the pediatric dentist to figure out what’s happening behind the scenes.

Super Sensitivity

If your child experiences sensitivity to hot foods, cold drinks, or sugary snacks, it could be due to a new cavity. When your tooth enamel wears away due to damage, cracks, or plaque-causing bacteria, the openings remove the barrier between your tooth’s nerve and heat, cold, and sugar.

When this happens, your tooth becomes sensitive to dramatic change, super sticky foods, and sugary stuff, which can cause severe pain! Is your little one complaining after eating something hot, cold, or sweet? It’s time to book a pediatric dentistry appointment.  

Icky Breath

Bad breath in children (and adults) can be totally normal – but it may be a sign of a cavity. Bad breath is caused by the same bacteria that chow down on food particles in your mouth. Not only do these bacteria cause cavities, but cavities are the perfect breeding ground for more bacteria to grow. 

Long-lasting lousy breath could mean there’s a cavity lurking! Schedule a cleaning and exam to get those teeth looking fantastic again (and give your pediatric dentist a chance to check out that smile).

Funky Staining

If you notice brown, black, or white stains on the surface of a tooth, it’s entirely possible that there’s a cavity on the way. Staining is the first step in tooth decay; proper care and diligent cleaning can reverse the damage! 

Big Holes or Pits

White spots can pop up on teeth that aren’t getting adequately scrubbed. But when those spots turn into pits or holes, we have bad news: it’s a cavity.

These holes or pits form when the tooth’s enamel is weakened due to decay. The cavity may not be noticeable at first, but it can become more apparent as it grows. Your child’s enamel won’t return over time – you’ll need a pediatric dental professional to fix the problem!

Cavity Concerns? Time to Visit S’more Smiles!

If your child is experiencing any of these signs, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with your pediatric dentist as soon as possible. Cavities can worsen over time, leading to more significant dental problems if left untreated (like gum disease, severe pain, or even tooth loss).

In the meantime, ensure your child continues to practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and avoiding sugary drinks and snacks. With help from a smile pro like S’more Smiles Pediatric Dentistry in Cullman, you and your child’s chompers will get back on track ASAP!