Why Does My Child Keep Getting Cavities?

Most people understand that brushing teeth frequently helps to prevent cavities. What many do not realize is that some people are more susceptible to getting cavities than others. Various factors increase the prevalence of childhood dental decay.
 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recognize dental cavities as the most common chronic disease among children. Find out why your child keeps getting cavities.
 

Developing Dental Cavities

Tooth decay is the destruction or breakdown of the tooth enamel, which can lead to dental caries or cavities. The enamel is the strong outer tooth surface. Dental cavities occur when increased oral bacteria produce acids that attack the tooth surface.
 

The acids dissolve calcium and other minerals that make up the tooth enamel, causing the tooth to weaken. If not treated, the condition progresses, and the holes in the tooth get bigger. Cavities can reach deep inside the tooth, affecting the nerve endings and causing pain and sensitivity.
 

Cavities in Children and Babies

Whether or not your child will get cavities is not only determined by how much candy they eat. It is not even about how often they brush their teeth. Various factors influence children’s chances of getting cavities.
 

Behavioral, environmental, and biological factors contribute to an increased risk of dental decay. All children have oral bacteria, which means they are all at risk of developing cavities. However, some children have a higher risk.
 

Increased Risk of Cavities

Factors that increase the risk of children developing cavities include:

• Tooth structure or enamel quality.
• High levels of cavity-causing bacteria.
• Poor oral hygiene.
• A diet high in carbohydrates and sugar.
• Quality and quantity of saliva.
• Mouth breathing that causes dry mouth.
• Certain medications.
• Access to water with little or no fluoride.

Tooth Structure and Anatomy

The quality and quantity of the tooth enamel can determine susceptibility to cavities. Some children are born with weak teeth due to a thin outer layer. Reduced mineral components can leave the enamel more prone to decay. It can be due to genetics, pre-birth issues, or illness during infancy.
 

Teeth that have deep grooves are more prone to cavities. Food getting stuck in the grooves causes plaque and bacteria buildup. Crowded or overlapping teeth tend to be harder to clean. They are more likely to create areas where food can become trapped. The areas become breeding grounds for bacteria.
 

Tongue and oral muscle movement helps to clear the mouth and keep the teeth clean. Neurodevelopmental or muscular conditions can affect oral function. Children with these conditions are more susceptible to developing cavities. Enamel hypoplasia and other dental enamel defects can increase the risk of cavities.
 

Preventing Cavities in Children

Scheduling regular checkups can help to prevent cavities in children. The checkups should begin when the first tooth emerges or before the child’s first birthday. A pediatric dentist can determine if your child is susceptible to cavities. Establish good dental hygiene practices for your child as early as possible. Regular dental checks and cleaning can help detect issues before they become severe.
 

Pediatric dentists recommend various treatment options, depending on the size of the dental cavity. Mild tooth decay may be managed with plaque removal, cleansing, using fluoride, remineralizing the teeth, and using dental sealants. If a cavity has developed, the dentist will recommend fillings to repair the damage.
 

For more on why your child keeps getting cavities, visit Castro Valley Dentistry. Our office is in Castro Valley, California. Call (510) 674-0900 to book an appointment today.

https://www.healthline.com/health/childrens-health/cavities-in-kids