When a young child develops a cavity, a tooth filling might seem unnecessary since the baby tooth in question will soon fall out. However, tooth decay at any age can lead to a number of issues ranging from  pain to serious infections. If you’re debating whether you should get your little one in for a filling, here's a look at why your pediatric dentist will likely recommend it.

Why Are Tooth Fillings Necessary for Younger Children?

1. Minimize Pain and Discomfort

Cavities can cause significant pain and discomfort. This can be a problem for people of any age but especially so for children who haven’t developed a higher pain threshold and may suffer exaggerated distress as a result. One of the simplest and best reasons to get a filling for a baby tooth is to ensure your little one is kept comfortable and happy.

2. Prevent the Spread of Decay

Rather than forming anew, permanent teeth start emerging from beneath the temporary ones when a child is around 6 years old. If a baby tooth is decayed or damaged, bacteria can spread from the affected area to the gum and from there to the hidden permanent tooth.

Thus, a permanent tooth can become infected or damaged before it even emerges, leading to further discomfort and complications later on. In severe cases, it may even be necessary to replace a damaged permanent tooth unless cavities and similar issues are treated as soon as possible.

3. Ensure Proper Chewing and Speaking Abilities

Baby teeth typically come in over a span of time between the ages of 6 and 33 months. This period coincides with the period when a child’s speech development is at its most critical. The loss of a single tooth before the age of 3 can have a significant impact on your little one’s speaking abilities, and it could affect their ability to eat normally. Getting a tooth filling can aid in normal speech development and enable your child to get the nutrition they need to grow up healthy.

If your child has developed a cavity in a baby tooth, turn to the compassionate team at La Crosse Pediatric Dentistry. These caring pediatric dentists offer everything from tooth fillings to routine checkups to ensure your little one’s dental health develops the way it should and continues through to adulthood. To schedule an appointment, call the La Crosse County, WI, office at (608) 782-4054. Visit them online to learn more about their services.