Cavities in children are one of the most common dental problems. Parents often think that baby teeth do not require treatment since they will eventually fall out. In reality, untreated cavities can turn into a serious issue and affect both the proper development of permanent teeth and a child’s overall health.
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Cavity Treatment in Children - Everything You Need to Know About Your Little One’s Smile
12 September 2021
What Is a Cavity?
A cavity is damage to the hard tissues of the tooth caused by bacterial factors. It begins with the breakdown of enamel and gradually progresses deeper over time. The main cause is bacteria in the oral cavity that convert sugars and carbohydrates into acids. These acids damage the tooth enamel, gradually destroy the protective layer of the tooth, and create a defect known as a “cavity” or “carious lesion.”
Why Are Cavities More Common in Children?
Cavities often develop faster in children because their tooth enamel is thinner and less resistant to acids. There are several specific reasons why cavities are common in children:
Weak enamel: Children’s enamel is thinner and less durable, so acids produced by bacteria damage it more quickly.
Poor oral hygiene: Children often struggle to brush properly and thoroughly, which is why parental involvement in daily oral care is essential.
Unhealthy diet: Children frequently consume sweets, chocolate, pastries, juices, and carbonated drinks that contain large amounts of sugar. Sugar creates an ideal environment for bacteria, accelerating cavity development. Eating sweets at night is especially harmful because saliva production decreases during sleep, reducing the mouth’s natural cleaning process.
Infrequent dental visits: Many parents believe baby teeth do not require treatment because they will eventually fall out. This approach is incorrect, as untreated cavities can spread, cause pain and infection, and lead to problems with permanent tooth eruption and alignment.
Symptoms of Cavities in Children
Cavities often begin without noticeable symptoms, as early stages may not cause pain. However, parents should watch for the following signs:
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White or dark spots on the tooth
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Sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweet foods
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Pain while chewing
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Refusal to eat
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Bad breath
White, yellowish, or dark spots may indicate enamel damage. Over time, these spots can deepen and turn into cavities.
As decay progresses, sensitivity to temperature or sweets may appear. Pain during chewing or at night can signal deeper damage. Behavioral changes such as irritability, touching the cheek or mouth area, or refusing food may also occur.
Persistent bad breath may indicate active bacterial growth.
If left untreated, symptoms can worsen, leading to severe pain, gum inflammation, and infection. Therefore, a timely visit to a pediatric dentist is strongly recommended if any suspicious signs appear.
Stages of Cavities in Children
Cavities develop gradually and are classified into four stages:
1. Initial CavityThe earliest stage, where a white or slightly yellow spot appears on the enamel. There is no deep damage yet, and usually no pain. At this stage, the process may be reversible with fluoride treatment and preventive care.
2. Superficial CavityDamage spreads within the enamel. A small cavity or dark spot may appear. Some sensitivity may develop. Treatment is relatively simple and usually painless.
3. Moderate CavityThe decay reaches the dentin (inner layer of the tooth). Symptoms become more noticeable, including pain while chewing. Treatment involves removing infected tissue and placing a filling.
4. Deep CavityThe most severe stage, when decay approaches or affects the tooth nerve. Pain can be intense. It may cause inflammation, infection, and premature loss of baby teeth. More complex treatment is often required, sometimes under general anesthesia for young children.
Early detection makes treatment easier, faster, and less stressful for the child.
Why Is Timely Treatment Important?
Cavities do not heal on their own and only worsen over time. Untreated cavities can cause:
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Severe pain and discomfort
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Spread of infection
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Nerve damage
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Premature loss of baby teeth
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Improper eruption of permanent teeth
Early treatment is simpler, faster, and less stressful. Procedures at early stages are painless and usually do not require complex interventions or anesthesia. Regular dental visits are the best way to maintain a healthy smile.
Cost of Cavity Treatment in Children
The cost of treatment varies individually and depends on:
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The stage of decay
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The number of teeth requiring treatment
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Whether anesthesia or sedation is needed
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The materials used (composite filling, etc.)
An in-person consultation is necessary to determine the exact cost. Only a dentist can assess the condition and create an individualized treatment plan. At Blits Dental – Kakhaber Kharebava Clinic, parents receive detailed information about the treatment plan and pricing during consultation.
Cavity Treatment Under General Anesthesia
In modern pediatric dentistry, treatment under general anesthesia is often the best solution when a child cannot cooperate during procedures. It is typically recommended when:
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The child is very young (under 3 years old)
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The child has severe dental fear or phobia
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Extensive treatment is required (e.g., treating 8 -10 teeth at once)
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The child has special healthcare needs
During anesthesia, the child is in deep sleep and feels no pain or discomfort. One major advantage is that the child does not develop negative dental experiences, reducing fear in the future.
Safety is a top priority. Modern anesthesia is safe and administered under the strict supervision of an anesthesiologist. The child’s breathing, heart rate, and vital signs are continuously monitored. A full medical evaluation is conducted beforehand.
After treatment, the child wakes up quickly and retains no negative memory of the visit.
Example: 14-tooth full-mouth rehabilitation under anesthesia performed by Dr. Lia Mania.
The Pediatric Dentistry Department at Blits Dental - Kakhaber Kharebava Clinic offers safe and modern treatment.
Treatment under general anesthesia is performed by our doctors in partnership with the American Hospital.
To book a consultation, call: (+995) 32 222 15 16 or schedule online.