Should You Treat Cavities in Baby Teeth? – Yes, Here’s Why
24 Apr 2025
Baby teeth are more than just placeholders for adult teeth. They help with chewing, speech development, and jaw growth, and they set the foundation for healthy permanent teeth. When these teeth develop cavities, they aren’t just a short-term problem—they can affect your child’s long-term dental and overall health.
Even though baby teeth fall out, they can remain in your child’s mouth until age 10 to 12. That’s a long time to live with untreated decay, especially when bacteria can easily spread to the surrounding tissues and future adult teeth. Many parents wonder whether it’s worth treating baby teeth at all. The answer is yes, and here’s why.
Should You Treat Baby Teeth? – Yes
Treating cavities in baby teeth is necessary because the bacteria that cause decay do not disappear on their own. If left alone, the bacteria can damage nearby permanent teeth as they come in.
Dentists recommend treating baby teeth for several reasons:
- Bacteria from untreated cavities can spread to permanent teeth. Children often have both baby and adult teeth between ages six and twelve.
- Untreated decay can cause pain, infection, and even missed school days.
- Early removal of a baby tooth can cause alignment issues. If a baby tooth is taken out too soon, it may lead to space loss. Dentists then need to place a space maintainer to avoid future orthodontic problems.
- Dental problems affect your child’s ability to eat, speak clearly, and focus.
It’s also worth knowing that pediatric dentists use tools and techniques tailored to kids, and they’re trained in child psychology. This helps make dental visits smoother and less stressful.
Risks of Leaving Baby Teeth Untreated
Leaving cavities untreated can lead to serious infections. In some cases, infections from baby teeth have affected overall health and, rarely, have even led to life-threatening outcomes.
If cavities in baby teeth are not treated:
- They can spread infection to the permanent teeth underneath.
- Severe cases can cause pain, swelling, and fever.
- The bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause systemic problems.
- Some infections may require emergency dental or medical care.
One documented case involved a child in Ohio who died from a tooth infection that spread. While rare, it shows how dangerous untreated dental issues can become.
Treating cavities early helps your child avoid pain and complications, and it protects their future oral health. Regular dental visits and early care are the best way to prevent more serious problems.
Signs Your Child Has a Cavity
Cavities aren’t always easy to spot, especially in young children who may not complain until the pain is more serious. Still, there are a few signs you can watch for at home.
Look for these signs of possible cavities:
- Black or brown spots on the teeth – These may look like stains but can be early signs of decay.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods – If your child flinches or avoids certain foods, a cavity could be the reason.
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away – Persistent odour can be a sign of decay.
- Avoiding chewing on one side of the mouth – This can mean pain when biting down or pressure on a specific tooth.
- Swelling or redness around a tooth – Inflammation might indicate infection.
Even if you’re not sure what you’re seeing, it’s better to have a dentist take a look. A quick check can confirm whether treatment is needed.
See our full guide on how to know if your child has cavities
Regular Dentist Visits are Important
Routine dental care helps catch problems early and keeps your child comfortable in the dental setting. Dentists recommend visits every six months for most children, and every three months for those at higher risk of cavities.
Children are considered higher risk if they:
- Have a history of multiple cavities
- Wear braces or dental appliances
- Have poor oral hygiene habits
- Eat a diet high in sugar or processed snacks
- Struggle with behavioural or developmental challenges like ASD
Dentists can track tooth development, apply preventive treatments like fluoride or sealants, and give you advice on brushing, flossing, and nutrition.
Over time, regular visits help build trust. When your child is used to the dentist, appointments feel routine—not scary. That comfort can make all the difference if your child ever needs treatment.
Your Child’s First Dentist Visit
The best time for your child’s first dental visit is by their first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth coming in. Starting this early helps your child get used to the environment and lets the dentist spot any early concerns.
During this visit:
- The dentist will check your child’s teeth, gums, and jaw development.
- They’ll talk with you about feeding habits, thumb sucking, and how to care for baby teeth.
- You’ll get a chance to ask questions and understand what to expect as more teeth come in.
The setting is usually bright and kid-friendly, with tools and approaches designed for children. Some kids even enjoy their visits, especially when they leave with a small prize or sticker.
By starting early, you give your child a healthy routine and avoid surprises later on. It’s a simple step that supports lifelong oral health.
See our full guide on how often should you take your child to the dentist
Kids Dental Group Can Help with Cavities
If you’re unsure about your child’s teeth or have noticed something unusual, it’s a good time to schedule a checkup. At Kids Dental Group, we focus on children’s oral health and know how to make visits comfortable, even for nervous little ones.
Whether it’s a small cavity or a general exam, our team will guide you through every step and explain what your child needs. We use child-friendly tools, a gentle approach, and we always take the time to answer your questions.
You don’t have to figure it out on your own—we’re here to help get your child’s oral health on track.
