3 Signs Your Child's Tooth Has a Cavity
Posted on: 22 October 2018
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If you have noticed that your child is having trouble chewing or is favoring one side of their mouth while eating, you may suspect that they have a cavity. If so, look for the following signs that your child's tooth has a cavity.
1. The Tooth Is Sensitive to Temperature Extremes
One sign for which you should be on the lookout when trying to confirm your suspicions that your child has a cavity is when your kid starts refusing to eat anything too hot or too cold. This is especially true if they turn down a favorite food, such as ice cream, because it causes them discomfort when they eat it.
If your kid is turning away such foods, ask them where in their mouth the sensitivity seems to be the worse. If they can pinpoint one particular tooth or area, it is highly likely that a cavity has formed in the tooth and is exposing the underlying nerves, making their tooth sensitive to temperature extremes.
2. The Tooth Is a Different Color than the Ones around It
If you have been able to pinpoint the tooth or area in the mouth where your child is complaining about discomfort, use a small flashlight to see if there are any teeth that are discolored. If a tooth has a cavity in it, it will usually be a different color than the ones around it.
Make sure you have your child brush their teeth before you examine the colors, as certain foods could temporarily discolor the enamel. Then, look for any teeth that are a little darker than the other ones. Also, look for a tooth that appears to have a dark ring on the surface, as this could give you the exact location of the cavity.
3. The Gum Tissue around the Tooth Is Inflamed
Along with the other signs, the gum tissue surrounding the affected tooth may appear red and swollen. This is especially true if the cavity is located lower on the tooth where it can directly irritate the gums. However, inflamed gums could also be a sign that the cavity is deep within the tooth or a sign of infection. If the gums are inflamed, take your child to a dentist as soon as you are able.
If you notice that one of your child's teeth is exhibiting any of the above signs, your child may have a cavity that should be checked out as soon as possible. Make an appointment with a kid's dentistry office so that a dentist like William E Kemper DMD can examine your child's teeth and discuss any available treatment options if a cavity is found.