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Tooth decay is one of the most prevalent diseases that affect both children and adults. In fact, 90% of adults and children experience tooth decay. It is not unusual for both children and adults to get cavities. In fact, it is a very rare person who doesn’t experience tooth decay during their lifetime. If you are a parent who is concerned about a cavity in your child’s baby tooth, you need information about whether cavities in baby teeth are a concern.

What Are Baby Teeth?

You may have heard the term baby teeth, but baby teeth can have other names. The clinical term for baby teeth is deciduous teeth, but they can also be called milk teeth or primary teeth. These are the first teeth all babies and children get after they are born. The first baby teeth usually appear around six months of age, but it isn’t unusual for children to get their first baby tooth after their first birthday.

What Happens When You Get a Cavity

A cavity is actually a hole in your tooth that is caused by bacteria. The bacteria are always in your mouth, and they aid in the digestion of food. However, if you don’t brush and floss daily, the bacteria can eat a hole in your tooth over time. If you don’t have cavities treated and filled, they can lead to tooth loss, pain, and even the risk of the infection spreading to other teeth.

Getting a Cavity in Baby Teeth

Many parents believe that cavities in baby teeth are no big deal because their children will lose the teeth anyway. However, when your child gets a cavity in their baby tooth, it can cause trouble for their permanent teeth as well. Research shows that if children have untreated cavities, it can impact permanent teeth as well. Your child may end up with discolored teeth, teeth that are oddly shaped, or teeth that may not come in at all. That’s why it’s so important to have your child brush and floss their teeth twice a day every day.