How to Tackle Tooth Decay in Baby Teeth

Seeing your child's first tooth is a joyful moment for every parent, but it also marks the beginning of an important journey. Protecting your child's oral health is essential to ensure the proper development of each tooth. Tooth decay in baby teeth is a common dental issue, with 42% of Australian children aged between 5 and 10 years having cavities in their primary teeth. Bradbury Dental Surgery, your trusted dentist in Campbelltown, is here to address tooth decay in baby teeth with confidence and clarity.

Understanding Tooth Decay in Baby Teeth

Tooth decay, also known as early childhood caries, begins when sugars from foods and drinks interact with bacteria that naturally occur in a child's mouth. These bacteria feed on sugars and produce acids that dissolve the thin outer layer of a tooth. Baby teeth are particularly vulnerable because their enamel, the protective outer layer, is much thinner and softer than adult teeth.

This means that tooth decay can start as early as six months, right when the first tooth appears. If left unattended, decay can fast-track to pain, infection, and eventual tooth loss, which can impact speech, eating habits, and the alignment of adult teeth.

Key Signs of Tooth Decay

Early detection is very important. Keep these points in mind:

• White chalky spots near the gum line (early signs of demineralisation).

• Yellow, brown, or black patches on the tooth surface.

• Visible holes or cavities.

• Discomfort or sensitivity when eating.

  
  

If you see any of these, don't wait. Give your dentist in Campbelltown a call – getting on it quickly can stop any further damage and set your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Early Start and Consistency Prevent Tooth Decay

Prevention starts from day one. Here's what you can do to protect your child's smile:

1. Start Cleaning from the Beginning: Even before those tiny teeth appear, gently wipe your baby's gums with a clean, damp cloth. Once that first tooth arrives, use a baby toothbrush with a tiny smear of low-fluoride toothpaste. Then, from around 18 months to 6 years, you can use a pea-sized amount of children's fluoride toothpaste.

   
   

2. Brush Together, Supervise Always: Brush their teeth twice a day – once in the morning and again before bed. It's important to supervise their brushing until they're about 8 years old. To make it fun and help them get into a good routine, make brushing time a family activity!

   
   

3. No Bottles in Bed: Try not to let your baby fall asleep with a bottle of milk, formula, or juice. When they're sleeping, we produce less saliva, which means less protection against those acid attacks. Instead, offer them cooled, boiled water if they need a drink.

   
   

4. Keep an Eye on Sugar: Limit sugary snacks and drinks, especially between meals. Water and plain milk are much better choices than juices and soft drinks. And a balanced diet with plenty of fruit, veggies, and calcium-rich foods (like cheese, yoghurt, and leafy greens) will help make their enamel strong and keep their mouth healthy overall.

   
   

5. Regular Check-Ups are Key: Make sure you visit a dental clinic in Campbelltown, like Bradbury Dental Surgery, by the time your child turns one, or within a couple of weeks of their first tooth appearing – whichever comes first. Regular check-ups every six months mean we can catch any problems early and provide preventative treatments like fluoride varnish or dental sealants.

   
   

What if Your Child Does Get Decay?

Try not to worry – early action can make a big difference. Depending on how bad the decay is, your dentist might suggest:

• Fluoride Treatments – Strengthens enamel and can reverse early decay.

• Fillings or Crowns – To repair damaged teeth.

• Extractions and Space Maintainers – In severe cases, to prevent misalignment of adult teeth.

  
  

These treatments are usually quick, safe, and designed to keep your child comfortable. At Bradbury Dental Surgery, our team is skilled at caring for children gently and able to make every visit gentle and stress-free for children.

Building Healthy Habits for Life

Teaching your child about looking after their teeth is one of the best things you can do for them. Encourage them to be independent by letting them choose their own toothbrush. Use songs or timers to make brushing fun, and give them plenty of praise for being consistent. The more involved they feel in taking care of their teeth, the more likely they are to keep up those good habits and avoid dental problems later in life.

Our team of expert dentists in Camden will support you throughout the process, from baby teeth to full-grown adult smiles. Our aim is, therefore, not just to treat tooth decay but to prevent it completely.

Why Choose Bradbury Dental Surgery?

Bradbury Dental Surgery, your local, trusted dentist in Campbelltown, is right here in the heart of the area, and we come highly recommended by local families. We offer a full range of dental care for children, with a big focus on preventing problems, educating families, and providing gentle treatment. Our dentists are experienced in children's dentistry, and we've created a child-friendly environment so they have positive experiences.

Whether you are looking for a dentist in Campbelltown for a routine check-up, have a dental emergency in Campbelltown, or would like advice from experienced dentists in Camden, we are here to help your child achieve a healthy smile for a lifetime.

Take Action Today

To schedule an appointment with our Campbelltown dentist for your child or learn more about our paediatric dental services, visit Bradbury Dental Surgery. Let’s work together to combat tooth decay – one smile at a time.