Have you noticed dark spots or sensitivity in your child’s teeth? Many parents wonder how important it is to treat baby (primary) teeth affected by caries, since these teeth will eventually be replaced by permanent ones. However, a lack of timely treatment can lead to serious consequences. In this article, we will discuss what caries is, why it is dangerous for baby teeth, and what treatment methods are available.
What Is Caries?
Caries is a pathological process of destroying the hard tissues of the tooth (enamel and dentin) caused by bacteria. The main “culprit” is dental plaque, which contains microorganisms that feed on carbohydrates from food and produce acids. These acids damage the enamel, creating conditions for cavity formation.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 60% of children worldwide experience caries before reaching school age. [1]
Is Caries in Baby Teeth Different from Caries in Permanent Teeth?
While the underlying nature of caries is the same, baby teeth have certain characteristics:
Thin enamel. Children’s enamel is more vulnerable to acid exposure.
Rapid spread. Caries in children progresses faster due to a thinner layer of dentin.
Closer proximity of the pulp. The nerve and blood vessels are closer to the surface, so pain and inflammation can occur much more quickly.
All these factors make baby teeth particularly susceptible to caries and require a delicate approach to treatment.
Why Is Caries in Baby Teeth Dangerous?
Some parents assume that caries in a baby tooth is not a big deal, since these teeth will fall out eventually. In reality, untreated caries can lead to:
Pain and inflammation. Infection can spread to the soft tissues and cause an abscess.
Problems with permanent teeth. Inflammatory processes in the roots of baby teeth can affect the developing permanent teeth.
Malocclusion (bite issues). Early loss of baby teeth can cause tooth misalignment and future orthodontic problems.
Delayed speech development. Painful sensations in the teeth affect correct speech formation and jaw development.
Research shows that childhood caries can cause pain and discomfort, affecting sleep and overall quality of life for the child. [2]
What Treatment Methods Are Available?
The method used to treat caries in baby teeth depends on the stage of the disease and the child’s age. Let’s look at the main options:
Remineralization
Special gels or laser treatments to help strengthen enamel.
Filling
A standard method for deeper caries.
The dentist removes the damaged tissue and restores the tooth shape with filling material.
At Yiannikos Centre for Holistic Dentistry, we use only biocompatible filling materials free of harmful additives like BPA and parabens.
Pulpotomy or Pulpectomy
Applied if caries has reached the nerve (pulp).
Laser technique for the bacteria removal
Scientific data confirm that timely treatment with modern, safe materials prevents complications and maintains oral health [3].
Why Choose Yiannikos Centre for Holistic Dentistry?
At Yiannikos Centre for Holistic Dentistry, we apply a comprehensive and gentle approach to treating children’s teeth:
We conduct a thorough diagnosis, taking into account your child’s individual needs.
We use only biocompatible filling materials that are safe for health.
We employ advanced methods and technologies (remineralization with laser technology, modern composites without parabens).
We create a comfortable environment so that young patients feel calm and confident.
Bottom Line: Treat or Not Treat?
The answer is clear—treat. Caries in baby teeth should not be ignored, as it affects the overall oral health and can impact the development of permanent teeth. Prompt treatment and prevention help avoid serious complications, preserve a healthy smile, and ensure proper jaw development in children.
Book an Appointment
To prevent or treat caries in your child’s baby teeth, book an appointment with our specialists in Nicosia and Limassol. At Yiannikos Centre for Holistic Dentistry, we will carry out all the necessary procedures and provide ongoing care and prevention recommendations.
Take care of your child’s smile today!
References:
[2] - Drury TF, Horowitz AM, Ismail AI, Maertens MP, Rozier RG, Selwitz RH. Diagnosing and reporting early childhood caries for research purposes. J Public Health Dent. 1999; 59(3): 192–197. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1752-7325.1999.tb03268.x
[3] - Pinkham JR, Casamassimo PS, Fields HW, McTigue DJ, Nowak AJ. Pediatric Dentistry: Infancy Through Adolescence. 5th ed. Elsevier; 2013. https://s1.dentic.ir/book-4/160-nowak-pediatric-dentistry.pdf
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