Children love snacking on candy, cookies, and other sugary treats, but these habits can cause tooth decay. When cavities form on baby teeth, parents may wonder if it's necessary to fill them since they will fall out anyway. Although it can seem unneeded, here's why primary teeth affected by decay still need dental fillings.

Why Baby Teeth Cavities Need Filling

Regardless of how temporary they are, baby teeth should be treated like adult ones. Cavities carry many complications, including pain and discomfort, infection, and difficulty chewing or speaking. They can also be signs of deeper issues, such as improper brushing or too much sugar in their diet.

Primary teeth guide the development of permanent ones. If they fall out or must be pulled early, adult teeth are more likely to come in crooked or misaligned. Additionally, it is important to emphasize good dental care for your children while they are young. This practice builds the foundation for excellent oral hygiene as they grow.

What to Expect From the Filling Process

When visiting a pediatric dentist for a filling, they will first numb your child's mouth with an anesthetic to prevent discomfort. They then drill until the cavity gets removed. Once clean, the dentist fills the tooth, with amalgam, glass ionomer or composite fillings.

Amalgam fillings are silver in color and generally covered best by most dental insurances.  Glass ionomer is commonly used in baby teeth because it releases fluoride to prevent further decay. It is weaker than a composite option, so it is not meant to last more than a few years. Both glass ionomer and composite mimic the appearance of natural teeth.

How Parents Can Help Prevent Cavities

Teaching your child good dental care habits is the key to preventing cavities. You can set a good example by demonstrating your routine, then showing them how to do it themselves. They should brush for at least two minutes twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss once daily. It's a good idea to supervise their routine until they are old enough to do it on their own. 

Try to limit or avoid sugary foods and beverages like soft drinks and candy, especially chewy ones, which stick to your little one's teeth and increase the risk of developing cavities. Scheduling appointments with a pediatric dentist every six months allows the professional to look for signs of decay and provide a thorough cleaning treatment.

When your child is due for a visit with a pediatric dentist, visit Pedodontic Associates in Hawaii. This practice offers compassionate dentistry for children and babies in Oahu and Maui. Since 1977, their friendly and experienced team has made it their mission to educate families on proper oral hygiene habits while providing exceptional preventative care and dental treatments. Learn more about fillings and additional services online. To make an appointment, call (808) 487-7933 for the Aiea location, (808) 735-1733 for the Honolulu office, or (808) 877-0066 to reach Kahului.