Reno Dentists: Do Kids Need Fillings in Baby Teeth?

As we all know, people get two sets of teeth: their adult teeth and their baby teeth. This fact allows parents to view their children’s tooth loss with wistfulness rather than panic. But what about cavities? Do they require fillings, or can you leave them alone in baby teeth when there’s an adult replacement waiting in the wings? The answer may surprise you. Here with that answer are your Reno dentists, Dr. William Wager and Dr. Brian Evans.

Tooth Decay in Baby Teeth

If a baby tooth develops a cavity, a filling is absolutely necessary. It is imperative that decay be stopped before an infection has a chance to develop. An infection in a tooth is capable of killing the tooth as well as spreading throughout the mouth and even causing illness in other areas of the body. In addition, if the tooth decays and eventually falls out, it will be unable to perform one of its essential roles as a placeholder for the adult tooth. Without its presence, the surrounding teeth may grow into the area, resulting in crowded teeth when the adult teeth emerge.

Preventing Tooth Decay

For children and adults alike, a thorough homecare regimen of brushing and flossing can help keep teeth and gums healthy. When teaching children to brush, it is sometimes helpful to set a timer of two or three minutes in order to encourage them to brush thoroughly. You may also teach them to break down their brushing into three sections: the top, front, and back surfaces of teeth. Lastly, be sure that you take your children for regular checkups with your Reno family dentists, Dr. Wager and Dr. Evans.

Schedule a Visit with Your Reno Family Dentists

When was the last time you took your child for a dental visit? Regular checkups and cleanings can help prevent tooth decay and the necessity for dental fillings. If more than six months have passed since your child’s last visit, schedule an appointment with your Reno family dentists, Dr. Wager and Dr. Evans, today. Contact our 89502 dentist office at 775-829-7700. We are proud to serve patients in Reno, Sparks, Sun Valley, Spanish Springs, and surrounding communities.