How can a parent identify dental caries?
How can you tell if your baby has dental caries?
I have a 14-month-old son, and his teeth are in good shape. I know this because we just came back from his dentist. However, in the waiting room, I heard the dentist talking to another mother and telling her that her baby had dental caries. My understanding of carries is limited, but it is terrible tooth decay. The mother said she did not see any signs of her baby’s teeth being bad.
So, are there signs? Or can your child be ok one day and have carries the next? I did not want to ask my dentist since I did not want him to know I heard him talking to the other lady. Any information would be good.
Reply: Dental caries, or tooth decay, can sometimes be challenging to detect in its early stages. However, here are a few signs that your child may have dental caries:
1. Discolored spots or white, brown, or black spots on the teeth
2. Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures or sugary foods
3. Pain or discomfort in the teeth or gums
4. Bad breath
5. Difficulty eating or chewing
It’s important to note that dental caries may not show any signs or symptoms, so it’s important to take your child to the dentist regularly for checkups. The dentist can detect any early signs of tooth decay and provide treatment before it progresses.
