Explaining Signs of Tooth Infection and Decay

If your child complains about tooth pain, it’s time to get them to a dentist. However, how can you notice the early signs of tooth infection and decay before the damage is done? Thankfully, the American Dental Association provides plenty of kids’ dentist-approved advice on how to notice signs of tooth infection and tooth decay in kids.

Symptoms of Kids’ Tooth Infection and Tooth Decay

Did you know one in five children suffer from tooth decay by the time they’re in kindergarten? Knowing the signs of tooth infection and tooth decay early can help you prevent it and get swift treatment to stave off dental damage.

First, keep an eye out for red, swollen gums. This can be a sign of early tooth decay or disease and gingivitis. Your child should be using a soft, child-safe toothbrush. If you see any signs of gum damage or bleeding, or persistent redness, it’s time to visit your pediatric dentist.

Another sign of tooth infection and decay is pain when eating or swallowing. If your child complains that it hurts to eat food or shows signs of pain while swallowing, it may be time for a dental check-up.

Keep an eye out for dark spots, chips, or cracks on your children’s teeth, as this can be a clear indicator of decay and are a reason to head to the dentist as soon as possible. While many people think that because “baby teeth” fall out, they don’t need to worry about cavities, cavities, and tooth infections that can lead to complications down the road. The healthier your child’s teeth, the better set up their adult teeth are when they do grow in.

Treatment Options for Kids’ Tooth Infection and Decay

Thankfully, many treatment options for tooth decay and infection are simple, easy, and the same as those used for adults. First, your pediatric dentist will evaluate the extent of dental decay and decide on how much of the underlying enamel needs to be removed. The tooth will then be restored using a filling or dental crown. These can be made from metal or composite enamel and help restore your child’s teeth structure.

During the dental filling process, the dentist will numb your child's mouth with localized anesthetic, and your dentist may give them laughing gas to help them relax during the procedure. Once the decayed tooth portions are removed and cleaned, your dentist will place the fillings or dental crown and seal the area to prevent further decay. Thankfully, a dental crown or filling will not cause problems if your child still has their baby teeth, as they will still fall out like normal when the time comes.

In case of an infection, the tooth may need to be extracted and the area treated with medications to help fight the infection. Thankfully, fighting infections is easier if they are caught early, so make sure to take your child to the dentist for regular check-ups and if you have any concerns about their dental health.

If you have questions or concerns about kids' tooth infections and decay or want to make an appointment with a family-friendly, welcoming pediatric dentist, call us at 631-563-7462. At Smile First Pediatric Dentistry, your child's dental health is our top priority. Visit us today!