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.
I had an excellent experience with Dr. Behl and her entire team during my wisdom tooth extraction. I chose IV sedation, and it made all the difference. I was awake and aware throughout the procedure, but I felt completely relaxed and never experienced the panic or anxiety I usually have at the dentist.
Dr. Behl and her staff were compassionate, professional, and attentive from start to finish, making sure I was comfortable every step of the way. If you have dental anxiety or avoid going to the dentist because of fear, I highly recommend Dr. Behl and her team. They provided exceptional care and made what I expected to be a stressful experience surprisingly calm and comfortable.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review and kind words! We’re honored by your recommendation and are so glad you had a positive experience with our team. We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback!
All of the staff have been extremely incredible. Dr. Thoms was amazing & really helped calm me before my procedure. Dr. Thoms answered any & all questions I have had & was extremely understanding when it comes to having dental anxiety. Robyn was the best X-ray technician I have ever had. She felt personable but still extremely professional. Throughout my life I have been to numerous dentists in hopes of finding one that will take my extreme dental anxiety seriously & not make me feel bad for it. I have finally found my favorite dentist. The Dental Anesthesia Center is my #1 pick if I had to chose any dentist.
Response from the owner:Thanks for your kind words and for sharing your experience. We’re grateful for your trust in our team and are pleased to hear you felt supported and comfortable throughout your visit. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to continuing to provide compassionate, patient-centered care.
Hands down the best dental office in the area! They have always taken care of me and been very accommodating. The Doctors are the BEST!!! I would HIGHLY recommend this office if you are looking for a dentist! 5+ stars all around.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review and recommendation! We’re grateful for your kind words and are thrilled to hear that our team has provided a positive experience. We appreciate your support and look forward to serving our community with exceptional care.
I started seeing this practice as a scared middle age woman that thought she was quickly on the way to being toothless. Years later now, still working with the amazing Dr Behl and her amazing staff, I have been able to continue with my present teeth. Alway kind, full of grace, mercy and humor!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review. We’re honored to be part of your dental journey and appreciate your kind words about Dr. Behl and our team.
We have been taking our son to Dental Anesthesia since 2019. He gets his dental treatment and blood work done at the same time. We find the staff and Dr. Thoms highly professional. They communicate well and provide excellent treatment/services. Getting blood work done during sedation helps us a lot.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your experience. We’re honored to be part of your family’s care. We appreciate your trust in us.
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.
