Baby teeth are particularly prone to cavities because of the amount of sugar typically found in the foods and beverages young children eat and drink. Sugar is harmful to teeth because it feeds bacteria in the mouth, producing an acid that erodes the enamel of the teeth and causes decay and cavities.
Children under one have a diet that consists mostly of milk, which contains high levels of natural sugars. These sugars and other nutrients aid in the growth and development of your children but can be detrimental to teeth.
Toddlers and kids are also particularly vulnerable to cavities because they have yet to establish healthy dental hygiene habits and tend to consume foods and beverages high in sugar.
Cavities in baby teeth are often indicators of what to expect in adult teeth. If a child is prone to decay or other dental problems, this may be a signal for the dentist to take extra precautions like fluoride treatment or dental sealants.
Cavities in baby teeth must be treated because if they aren’t, the decay can spread into the developing adult teeth below the gumline. If a baby tooth becomes severely decayed or infected, it may need to be pulled prematurely, which can affect how your child’s teeth, mouth, and speech continue to develop.