My Kids’ Pediatric Dentist Is Cavity Crazy

It seems like my kids’ pediatric dentist is cavity crazy and money hungry. I really think she is looking for reasons to rack up my kids’ dental bills. For anything that looks like it might become a cavity she is recommending a filling. I have 4 kids and each of them have a least 3 cavities. We have dental insurance, but I always have a co-pay when cavities are filled. Is there any reason kids’ cavities need to be filled when they are going to lose their primary teeth anyway, or if they are still growing and the fillings are shrinking and need to be replaced? I’m just trying to figure out ways to save money on dental expenses. Thanks. Holly

Holly – Dental caries, or cavities, not only affect your children’s teeth, but also their quality of life. That’s why your kids’ pediatric dentist is so concerned. Consider some ways cavities affect children.

Ability to Eat Well – As cavities grow, the tooth nerves become sensitive. Increased pain and sensitivity to heat or hold can make it difficult to properly chew food and eat well.

Appearance – Depending on the location of the cavity, it can affect your child’s smile. If cavities darken teeth, or cause teeth to chip or break, children can become overly sensitive about their appearance. They might even begin to hide their smile.

Food Choices – If teeth become sensitive or painful, your children will want to limit their food choices to items that don’t hurt when they chew. Limited food choices can result in poor nutrition.

Bad Breath – Tooth decay causes bad breath. Bacteria from the decay give off an odor that stays on your breath. If your children are shunned or teased because of their bad breath, it can make them embarrassed and affect their self-esteem.

How to Limit Pediatric Dental Visits, Cavities, and Bills

How can you reduce the number of trips to the pediatric dentist, the number of cavities your kids have, and the dental bills?

• Diligent oral hygiene – Be certain that you or your children brush and floss their teeth daily. Their teeth should be brushed morning and night. Thoroughly floss between every tooth. Supervise young children to be certain that all teeth are correctly cleaned.
• Proper nutrition – A diet of sugary snacks and sticky foods exposes teeth to acid and food particles that promote bacteria and decay. Replace sugary snacks and drinks with healthier options like fruit, nuts, and water.
• Regular dental checkups – Ensure your children have regular dental cleanings and checkups. If their pediatric dentist does find cavities, have them filled promptly. Primary teeth that are left to decay can loosen and fall out or need to be extracted. Primary teeth should be healthy and intact to guide permanent teeth into the right position. Otherwise, improper tooth eruption can create the need for braces later.

It sounds like your kids’ pediatric dentist is doing the right thing. Talk to your children about the need to practice good oral hygiene and watch what they eat. Your precautions can save time, money, and the need for dental fillings in the future.

This post is sponsored by San Jose dentists Dr. Ralph Stanley, Dr. Magdalena Azzarelli, and Dr. Rogé Jacob of Hillsdale Dental Care.