Identifying your child’s early signs of tooth decay can help avoid severe tooth decay and premature tooth extractions.
Did you know that 52% of children between the ages of 6 and 8 have at least one cavity in their primary teeth? Cavities occur when bacteria feed on sugars and starch in the mouth and produce acid as a by-product. This acid erodes the enamel, exposing sensitive nerve fibers and causing intense pain.
Our son, Jimmy Henderson , has been having all of his dental care done by Dr. Michael Hoffmann and his team at the Dental Anesthesia Center for the past 15 years. He goes there once a year and they put him to sleep, clean his teeth, take x-rays and fix anything that needs to be repaired. They are such a blessing for us and our son. He couldn’t tolerate a regular dentist. We heartily recommend them for your dental care. Terry & Debbie Henderson
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful review. We are truly grateful for your trust and support over the years. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized care in a safe and comfortable environment. Your recommendation means the world to us!
Outstanding customer car for our 15 yrs old Autistic Granddaughter. Rebekah really helped put our minds and ease and helped us plan the next visit when it came to reservations we had on the cost of this treatment, and future ones. This is expensive, but worth it knowing they help special needs kids, teens and adults. Sedation dentistry team handle everything great! Thank you Dr. Thoms and the team!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review. We’re so glad our team could provide a supportive and reassuring experience while helping you plan for future care. It means a great deal to know you felt informed and cared for every step of the way. We truly appreciate your kind words and the trust you’ve placed in us.
Dr Thoms specializes in dental anesthesia for patients with Special Needs. My daughter has been a patient of his for many years. His experience, depth of knowledge and understanding the needs of Special Needs patients is excellent. He presents clear and detailed information for his procedures and treatment options along with expectations during aftercare. Follow up instructions include a personal phone call from him as well as additional calls from his office staff. I highly recommend Dr Thoms and definitely give him 5 stars.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience. We’re grateful for the trust families place in our team and are committed to providing thoughtful, individualized care with clear communication every step of the way. Your recommendation means a great deal to us!
My hygienist, DeLaina Joost, takes excellent care of my teeth with her advanced skills, gentle touch and great “chair side” manner. She is a consummate professional, and such a compassionate person. I look forward to my visits at DAC!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad to hear you had a positive experience with our team and appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback.
I want to thank everyone at the Dental Anesthesia Center for taking care of me yesterday—Meaghan helped me get the forms filled out correctly and in on time, Daisy for guiding me in and getting me out safely, Dr. Hoffman for taking care of my teeth and dealing with my really terrible gag reflex, and EVERYONE who helps make this happen. I don't know all of your names, but I do know that it takes all of you working together to make my dental care possible and have good results.
I'm always nervous when I first arrive, even though every procedure has had a good outcome. I've never had any pain or excessive bleeding as a result. The one thing I realized yesterday is that all of you are warm, friendly, positive, you have what is called a good vibe, which helps me a great deal.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience. We’re so glad our team could help you feel comfortable and supported throughout your visit. Providing a safe, positive environment is very important to us, and your feedback means a great deal. We truly appreciate your trust in our care!
Identifying your child’s early signs of tooth decay can help avoid severe tooth decay and premature tooth extractions. Here are some of the most common signs of cavities in children to look out for.
A Persistent Toothache
A dull, throbbing toothache could indicate tooth decay, especially if it worsens at night. Some children also complain about pain and sensitivity while eating. This is another sign of dental decay. While pain relievers can manage the pain, they’re only a temporary solution. Visit your dentist to treat the decay and eliminate the pain once and for all.
Sensitivity to Hot and Cold Drinks and Foods
Does your child feel a sharp pain when they eat ice cream or drink hot chocolate? If so, then they may have cavities. The corroding action of the acid exposes sensitive nerve endings, putting them in direct contact with the outside. This explains the sensitivity when eating hot or cold foods.
Tooth Discoloration
Teeth usually start browning during the early phases of tooth discoloration. Be on the lookout for any signs of discoloration, even a subtle change in shade. However, remember that staining from decay is localized and not widespread like with pigment discoloration. Visit your dentist immediately if you notice browning in your child’s teeth.
Bad Breath
The bacteria in the teeth produce sulfur as a by-product, which explains why tooth decay children have bad breath. Unexplained bad breath moments after brushing your child’s teeth is an early sign of dental decay. You can use child-friendly mouthwash to freshen their mouths while awaiting the dentist’s appointment.
Darkened Holes in the Teeth
Dark holes in the teeth or broken teeth are signs of advanced tooth decay. This shows that the infection goes past your enamel and dentin and extends to the tooth’s core. If so, your child might need a pulpotomy or root canal to address the infection and stop the decay.
Bleeding Gums
Gum disease usually goes hand in hand with tooth decay. So if your child experiences gum disease symptoms like bleeding and swollen gums, they probably have dental. The best action is to take them to a dentist for prompt diagnosis and treatment. The earlier you do so, the better for your child.
Schedule an Appointment
Be on the lookout for the telltale signs of dental decay to preserve your child’s oral health. Remember, early detection goes a long way toward preventing tooth decay and other dental complications in your child. Schedule a dentist’s appointment when you notice these signs.
Is your child suffering from dental decay? If so, contact The Dental Anesthesia Center for prompt treatment and pain relief.
