Cavities are one of the most common dental issue children face today—and one of the most preventable. These small holes that form in the teeth may start as a minor inconvenience but, if left untreated, can lead to severe pain, infections, and even tooth loss.
Understanding how cavities develop is key to defending your child’s oral health. Bacteria grow on the tooth and eventually eat away at the surface of the tooth. From the earliest stages of enamel weakening, which can usually be treated simply, to more severe conditions like abscesses, which require immediate care, the paediatric dentists at The Children’s Dental Centre want to help you understand the process of cavity formation, highlight the causes, and discuss ways to help your child prevent them.
What’s Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay is the gradual breakdown of the tooth structure caused by acidic byproducts of bacteria in your mouth. These acids erode the enamel—the hard outer layer of your teeth—eventually creating small holes or cavities.
Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth every day, is the central player in this problem. When your child consumes foods high in sugar or carbs, the bacteria in plaque feast on these residues, producing harmful acids that attack the enamel.
If untreated, the damage doesn’t stop at the enamel. Over time, decay penetrates deeper into the teeth, reaching the softer dentin layer and eventually the pulp, which contains the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels.
Stages of Cavity Formation
Cavities rarely develop overnight. They form in stages, each more damaging than the last. Below, we break down the five key stages of cavity formation:
Stage 1: Initial Demineralization
This is where it all begins. After consuming sugary or starchy foods, plaque bacteria produce acids that zap vital minerals from the enamel, creating areas of weakness. These patches often appear as chalky white spots on the teeth.
The good news? This early stage can be reversed. Fluoride in toothpaste and drinking water can help remineralize the enamel, halting decay before it worsens.
Stage 2: Enamel Decay
If demineralization persists, the enamel begins to break down. At this point, your child might notice tiny pits or holes on the surface of their teeth. These pits mark the official start of a cavity.
Solution: A paediatric dentist may use a filling to repair the hole and prevent the decay from progressing further.
Stage 3: Dentin Damage
Once decay breaches the enamel, it reaches the dentin, the softer, yellow layer beneath. Because dentin is less dense than enamel, cavities spread more quickly here. Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods is often felt at this stage.
At this point, professional treatment is necessary to prevent further damage.
Stage 4: Pulp Infection
The pulp is the core of the tooth and contains nerves and blood vessels. If decay reaches the pulp, serious pain, and inflammation occur. Your child might experience throbbing pain, discomfort when chewing, or sensitivity to pressure.
A root canal procedure is typically required to save the tooth during this stage.
Stage 5: Abscess Formation
The final and most severe stage of a cavity occurs when infection spreads beyond the pulp, forming a painful abscess. This condition can cause swelling in the face or gums, fever, and even swollen lymph nodes.
At this stage, emergency dental care is needed, and the treatment may involve draining the abscess, performing a root canal, or, in severe cases, tooth extraction.
In all cases, treatment will vary based on your child’s cavity location and cavity severity.
Signs of a Cavity
Cavities can be sneaky, sometimes developing with little warning. However, if you know what to look for, you can catch them early. Common signs include:
- White or dark spots on the teeth
- Tooth sensitivity to heat, cold, or sweet foods
- Pain when chewing or biting
- Visible holes or pits in your teeth
- Persistent toothache
Factors That Contribute to Cavities & How to Prevent Cavities
Understanding what increases your child’s risk of cavities can help you make better choices about their oral health. Here are some of the most common culprits:
Poor Oral Hygiene
Neglecting to brush and floss allows plaque to accumulate, creating a breeding ground for cavity-causing bacteria.
The solution? Make sure you child brushes twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flosses daily to remove plaque from hard-to-reach areas.
Diet High in Sugar
Sugary snacks and beverages fuel the bacteria that produce the acids that cause decay.
You can mitigate this risk by offering fewer sugary or starchy foods and have your child avoid frequent snacking. Opt for tooth-friendly snacks like cheese, nuts, and vegetables.
Receding Gums
Aging and aggressive brushing can cause gums to recede, exposing the tooth roots. Since roots lack enamel, they’re particularly vulnerable to cavities.
Try to book a visit for your child to see a paediatric dentist every six months for cleanings and exams. Early detection can save teeth from more extensive—and expensive—repairs down the road.
Acidic Foods & Drinks
Foods like citrus fruits and drinks like sodas and coffee can erode enamel, making it more susceptible to cavities.
Lack of Fluoride
Fluoride acts as a protective shield for teeth. Without it, your child’s enamel might struggle to repair itself during the early stage of demineralization.
Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps repair early decay. Make sure your child’s toothpaste is fortified with it.
Protect Your Child’s Smile—One Step at a Time
Cavities don’t have to be an inevitable part of life. They’re preventable with the right habits and proactive care. By understanding the stages of tooth decay and implementing simple preventative measures, you’ll significantly reduce the risk of cavities taking hold.If you suspect your child has a cavity, or just want to stay ahead of potential dental problems, don’t wait to take action. Book an appointment with our expert team at The Children’s Dental Centre today. We’re here to keep your smile healthy, happy, and cavity-free.