Signs Your Toddler May Have A Cavity

Your toddler cannot always communicate to you what is causing them pain or discomfort. As such, you need to be alert and pay attention for certain signs that can key you into your young child having a health or dental issue. While it is not as common as in adults, your toddler can develop one or more cavities on their teeth. The cavity may cause them sensitivity, discomfort, or pain. Here are a few of the signs you should be on the lookout for that may indicate your youngster has a cavity. 

There Is a White or Brown Spot on the Tooth

In children, a cavity starts out looking like a white or light spot on the tooth. This lighter appearance is present because the cavity is wearing the enamel down. As the cavity continues to affect the tooth, the color of the spot will change to a light brown color, followed by a dark brown or black color. You may also notice a small hole in the tooth. 

Pain or Sensitivity Around the Tooth

Another sign of a cavity in a toddler is pain or sensitivity around the tooth. You may notice your child only chewing on one side when they eat, you may notice they seem to cry when they eat something hot or cold, and/or you may notice that they don't seem to like when you brush one part of their mouth. While a toddler may not be able to tell you where or what hurts, they can give you many clues that it is their tooth. 

Loose or Wiggling Teeth

The final sign that a toddler may have a cavity is a tooth that is loose or wiggling. Baby teeth are not lost when a child is a toddler. As such, if they have a tooth that is loose or wiggling, something is wrong. If you cannot remember them hitting their face or mouth on something, it could be a cavity that is affecting the tooth and gum area, causing the looseness. 

If you suspect your toddler may have a cavity, you will want to schedule an appointment for them at a pediatric dental clinic. A pediatric dentist can then take x-rays of the tooth and confirm whether a cavity is present and what the best course of action for the tooth is. It is important to get the cavity treated to prevent infection, stop pain in your child's mouth, and prevent the cavity from spreading to the adult tooth below the baby tooth. Contact a pediatric dental clinic to schedule your appointment now.