Dealing with tooth pain from sensitivity to wisdom teeth is something that we all have to go through. Unfortunately, we know the pains associated with our teeth. When you have tooth pain, it’s best to contact your dentist to sense a tooth problem like cavities.
That being said, do you know how to spot a cavity in your child’s mouth? For example, they might be suffering from a cavity, and you don’t even know it. Some symptoms might seem like a simple scare or bruise if you don’t understand what might be causing your child discomfort. Be sure to carefully check for any issues that your child might be experiencing.
Sign #1: Gum Pain
If your kid complains of pain in their mouth while chewing, they could be experiencing misdiagnosed dental pain. Small children are more likely to have the problem, but older kids can misinterpret the source of their mouth pain as well.
One reason why a cavity could cause gum pain is that irritated gums can develop from improper brushing. If your child can brush their teeth, you should ensure that they brush correctly. Sore gums can mean that your child isn’t flossing or brushing their teeth enough.
If your child isn’t flossing or brushing enough, then their teeth could also be at risk of developing problems such as cavities. Go to the dentist immediately.
Sign #2: Pain When Chewing
Tooth pain is common in toddlers and babies starting around 18 months old. If your little one is experiencing pain while chewing, they will be able to let you know by saying they have a sore tooth and may even point to their mouth.
You can also help identify tooth decay by picking up on unusual eating habits. If your baby or toddler isn’t eating as much as they usually do, this could be a sign of a growing cavity.
If the pain happens while they are chewing, they will generally be able to point to a specific tooth or teeth in their mouth that are causing them discomfort. In other cases, pain may seem to radiate throughout the mouth rather than being in a specific place.
Sign #3: Spotty Teeth
Children should visit the dentist regularly for cleanings and fluoride treatments, especially if their teeth tend to develop dark spots or white or brown chalky areas. These are signs of a cavity forming in the teeth and must be treated as soon as possible. Early detection of tooth decay will ensure the integrity of their teeth for years to come.
Sign #4: Tooth Pain
Your child doesn’t have to have a cavity for them to experience toothaches. There are a few other reasons your child has pain in their pearly whites, but if your child does complain about it, you need to look for cavities.
Try asking your child to point to the side of their mouth where they feel the pain or point to the specific area in their mouth that is bothering them. When cavities develop in teeth, it hurts even when your child isn’t eating or drinking. Since this is when tooth pain is most noticeable, it’s a sign that a cavity could be developing.
Sign #5: Tooth Sensitivity
Some common foods that trigger pain caused by a tooth cavity are foods with high amounts of sugar in them. If your child is sensitive to hot or cold foods, it’s possible that a cavity is to blame.
Contact Pike District Smiles
One of the signs that a tooth cavity has formed is holes in your child’s teeth. A small hole in a tooth can be a sign of a tooth cavity because your child’s oral health has likely worsened if there is a hole. You should have your child open their mouth and look at all teeth to see if they have holes, then book a dentist appointment immediately to resolve the problem.
Speaking of, let a dentist from North Bethesda deal with your child’s cavities, like one from Pike District Smile! We offer comprehensive dental checkups, kid’s dentistry, root canals, periodontal care, dental implants, Invisalign, and more! Request for your appointment today!
