It is not common for baby teeth to need fillings, but they are sometimes required. Unfortunately, because the teeth are temporary, it is easy for parents to overlook the issue until their child's adult teeth grow in. In fact, some dentists may decide to wait, especially if the tooth is loose. However, ignoring cavities is not a good idea. Below are some reasons baby teeth might need to be filled.

Why Might Baby Teeth Need Fillings?

Cavities Can Affect Speech

Teeth are important when a child is learning to speak. A pulled, damaged, or painful tooth can slow down speech development. It might lead to difficulty making certain sounds, and this can cause difficulty communicating. Moreover, the child might experience confidence problems and shyness when speaking.

Cavities Might Impede Nutrition

Cavities can be painful, which often makes it difficult to chew and eat. This can result in the child not receiving the proper nutrition. Because toddlers put on between 2 and 3 inches of height per year, they require a lot of protein, calories, and other nutrients for optimal growth. A missing or painful tooth could slow their growth and affect their musculoskeletal system for life. 

Decay Can Spread

Permanent teeth perch inside the gum below the child's baby teeth. Untreated decay in the milk teeth can spread to the permanent teeth. Thus, not only might a tooth emerge from the gums already decayed, but it might cause other structural problem that the dentist must treat when the tooth appears. Moreover, decayed teeth can become infected, and the infection could spread to other areas of the body.

If your child needs fillings, contact the experts at Gladstein Dental Center in New Britain, CT. They have served patients throughout Hartford County and the surrounding areas for more than 25 years. They specialize in Cerec same day crowns, root canals, extractions, and other family dentistry procedures. They are renowned throughout the region for their relaxing environment, compassionate care, and easy appointment scheduling. Learn more about them on their website or call (860) 223-1162 to schedule fillings for you and your family.