3 Subtle Signs Your Child May Have A Cavity

Sometimes, it isn't easy to tell what is bothering a child, especially if they are too young to talk. Unfortunately, early childhood tooth decay is a very real problem that your kid could be dealing with, which is why it is smart to be on the lookout for the earliest signs of dental decay. Here are three signs your child may have a cavity. 

1.     Visible Discoloration

Although most people correlate dental cavities to dark brown or black spots on the teeth, they actually start out as white lesions of demineralization. Pay attention to the way your children's teeth look, and check their mouths carefully for the signs of dental decay. If you notice any discolorations visible on the teeth, jot down which tooth you noticed the problem on, and check it to see if it continues to get worse. Ask your child how the tooth feels, and schedule a dentist appointment to have the area checked out. 

2.    Aversion to Cold Foods

Since it can be hard to check the inside of a toddler or young child's mouth, watch how they react to foods that are particularly cold or acidic. If they have started to develop a cavity, those areas may be especially sensitive, which can make your little one pull away in pain or avoid certain foods in general. 

In advanced cases of dental decay, the tooth may even be sensitive to sweet things like candy or cookies, since sugar is acidic when it starts to break down. As you eat meals with your child, be on the lookout for the signs they are struggling to eat cold, sugary, or acidic foods. 

3.    Oral Discomfort

Sometimes, dental cavities can become deep enough that they start to impact the way your child's mouth feels in general, creating a significant amount of discomfort. Kids may struggle to fall asleep, stay asleep, or play happily during the day. Your little one might cry easily or seem agitated quickly. 

If they don't seem like themselves, pay attention to how often they touch their mouth and teeth. If they seem to have a new oral fixation, the issue could be a tooth that is bugging them. 

If you suspect that your little one is struggling with a cavity, don't hesitate to reach out to a dentist at a clinic like Pfeiffer Family Dentistry. By carefully evaluating your child's teeth and working hard to diagnose and resolve the problem, you could quickly and easily keep your little one's mouth healthy and comfortable.