We all know that our children's small teeth can be affected by tooth decay. However, fewer people know how caries can evolve on the primary dentition of a toddler or young child. This form of oral health condition is called early childhood caries (ECC). The Dents Mon Quartier team wants to make parents aware of ECC, in order to avoid harm to our young people and allow them to grow up with good oral health.
A definition of early childhood cavities
Childhood caries, milk bottle caries... No matter what you call it, it refers to the same problem. Indeed, ECC represents the caries that form on the primary dentition of young children. Children are exposed to them from the appearance of their first teeth, until the age of about 4 years. Thus, early childhood caries can start in babies whose dentition is just beginning to form. That is why all parents, even new ones, must be aware of this condition, its development and the risk factors associated with its formation.
Primary dentition is vulnerable
But why is this type of caries in a class of its own? This is because the dentition of toddlers and young children is not only at risk of developing cavities, but it is also at risk of spreading more quickly.
Indeed, the primary teeth of children are less resistant than the teeth of adults to the aggressions of bacteria. Their enamel is less solid, and it can be easily pierced by the acids produced by bacteria when they feed on the sweet residues that are deposited there. In addition to being able to develop easily, ECC may also spread to the different parts of the teeth that are affected by it. In more serious cases, caries can affect the entire dentition.
Early childhood caries: how to detect them?
Early childhood caries often appears in the form of small spots or white lines. The latter are then located near the gum. When ECC develops, cavities may appear on the surface of the teeth and the teeth may change to a brownish or black colour.
We therefore encourage parents to perform a visual examination of their toddlers' teeth on a regular basis to detect small white lesions that may suggest that ECC is developing. In case of doubt, a visit to the dentist is necessary in a short time.
Risk factors & prevention
When ECC has spread to several teeth, which may occur when the parents are not vigilant, it usually leads to complications: pulp necrosis, problems with the development of adult dentition, eating disorders or speech disorders, or even developmental problems in the most serious cases.
Thus, it is better to know how to prevent ECC to avoid complications and avoid resorting to invasive treatments. Indeed, in cases where the condition has spread, it is not uncommon for a child to have to be treated under general anesthesia, given the number of teeth to be repaired.
Thus, here are our tips to prevent EPC, which are related to the risk factors for this pathology:
- Never let your child sleep with a bottle of milk or juice (sweet beverages that can cause caries).
- Be sure to clean your child's teeth before bedtime as soon as the first teeth appear. This also applies to babies who are breastfed: small teeth must be cleaned when they are finished drinking.
- Limit the consumption of sugary foods and beverages in your children. Instead, use fruits and vegetable-based snacks and encourage them to drink water.
- Sweet foods should be consumed as a dessert at the end of a meal. The level of saliva in the mouth is then higher, which helps neutralize the bacteria.
- Make sure your child has good oral hygiene from an early age. Brush your teeth after each meal and before bedtime, in addition to flossing daily.
- Take your child to the dentist every 6 months. This allows the dentist to examine their primary dentition and detect the first signs of ECC quickly. He will then offer your child the necessary treatment to eradicate the carious lesions.
In case of doubt about the health of the small teeth of your toddlers or young children, the Dents Mon Quartier team is always there for you. Our dentists will be able to examine your child and offer you personalized advice for the prevention of early childhood caries!
Approved by Dre Charouk
Dr. Joumana Charouk, D.M.D, is proud to offer her patients exceptional care that combines experience, efficiency and good humor.
Dre Joumana Charouk, D.M.D