Childhood cavities are one of the most common oral diseases in children. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, they affect more than 60% of school-aged children. At Clínica Dental La Campana, we believe that good oral health from the very first years of life is key to preventing future problems. That’s why in this article we’ll explain how to prevent cavities, how to spot them early, and which treatments are most effective.
What are childhood cavities?
Childhood cavities are lesions that appear due to the demineralisation of tooth enamel caused by bacteria. These bacteria feed on sugars from food and produce acids that gradually erode the enamel surface. If left untreated, cavities can progress to the deeper layers of the tooth, causing pain and possible infection.
Although we often associate cavities with adult teeth, they also affect baby teeth. And even though these are temporary, it’s essential to look after them, as they help with chewing, speech development and keeping space for permanent teeth.
How can we prevent childhood cavities?
The prevention of childhood cavities begins at home with good oral hygiene and a healthy, balanced diet. Here are some simple but effective tips to help protect your little one’s smile:
1. Oral hygiene from the first tooth
Many parents wonder when to start brushing their child’s teeth. The answer is simple: as soon as the first tooth erupts. Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day using a child-friendly toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste. Brushing should always be supervised by an adult.
2. Limit sugar intake
Sugary foods and drinks such as sweets, fizzy drinks and pastries feed the bacteria responsible for cavities. Reduce their intake, especially between meals, and encourage healthier options like fresh fruit, natural yoghurt or cheese.
3. Regular dental check-ups
Regular dental visits allow early detection of childhood cavities and help implement preventive measures. At Clínica Dental La Campana, we recommend scheduling your child’s first dental visit before their first birthday, followed by check-ups every six months.
What are sealants and how do they help prevent childhood cavities?
One of the most effective tools for preventing childhood cavities—especially in molars—is the use of fissure sealants. These are thin coatings made from a resin material that are applied to the chewing surfaces of permanent molars, usually between the ages of 6 and 12.
Fissure sealants create a physical barrier that protects the deep grooves and pits of the molars—areas where food tends to get trapped and brushing is more difficult. They are completely painless, non-invasive, and very effective in reducing the risk of cavities.
At our clinic, we use high-quality resin sealants, applied by our expert paediatric dental team after a personalised evaluation.
How are childhood cavities treated?
If a cavity has already formed, it’s important to treat it as soon as possible to prevent complications. The treatment will depend on the extent of the damage:
- Early-stage cavities: in some cases, fluoride treatment or a therapeutic sealant may stop the cavity from progressing.
- Moderate cavities: the decayed area is removed, and the tooth is restored with a filling.
- Severe cases: if the cavity reaches the dental pulp, treatments like pulpotomy or even extraction of the baby tooth may be necessary.
At Clínica Dental La Campana, all treatments are carried out gently and are fully adapted to the child’s age, ensuring a stress-free and positive experience.
Why choose Clínica Dental La Campana?
Our clinic has a specialised team in paediatric dentistry, with years of experience in caring for children’s oral health. We know the importance of making the first dental visit a positive one, which is why we create a warm and welcoming environment for all our young patients.
- Personalised care tailored to every age
- Modern techniques and high-quality materials
- Oral health education for parents and children
- Comfortable facilities and a friendly atmosphere
An investment in your child’s future health
Preventing and treating childhood cavities not only benefits your child’s current health but also prevents more complex and costly treatments later on. A healthy mouth from childhood lays the foundation for a lifetime of confident smiles.
Do you have questions about childhood cavities or want to book an appointment?
📞 Call us on 951 55 66 44
📩 Or email us at info@clinicadentalalacampana.com
Get in touch with Clínica Dental La Campana today – we’ll help you take care of your little ones’ smiles.
At Clínica Dental La Campana, we help you care for your little one’s smile with kindness, professionalism, and expertise.
