Also known as: tooth decay, dental decay, decayed teeth, small holes in teeth, enamel decay, cavities in kids

Cavities in children are damaged areas of a tooth where decay has started to break down the enamel. Early cavities may not cause obvious symptoms at first, but as they grow, kids may develop sensitivity, visible dark spots, food trapping, bad breath, or pain when chewing. Some cavities are only noticed during a dental exam, while others become easier to see once a small hole or rough area forms on the tooth.

This symptom usually means bacteria and plaque have been active on the tooth long enough to weaken its outer surface. Some cavities stay small and are simple to treat when found early, while deeper areas of decay can spread toward the nerve and cause pain, infection, or damage that requires more involved care. Early evaluation helps stop the decay, protect the tooth, and keep treatment as conservative as possible.

Possible Causes of Cavities

Cavities are commonly associated with:

  • Plaque and bacteria buildup – When plaque stays on the teeth, bacteria feed on sugars and produce acids that wear down enamel and start the decay process.

  • Frequent sugary snacks or drinks – Repeated exposure to juice, milk, sweets, or sticky snacks gives cavity-causing bacteria more opportunities to create acid and damage the teeth.

  • Inadequate brushing and flossing – When teeth are not cleaned thoroughly, especially along the gumline and between teeth, plaque can stay in place long enough to create cavities.

  • Deep grooves or hard-to-clean molars – Back teeth often have pits and grooves that trap food and bacteria, making them common places for cavities to form.

  • Bedtime bottles or frequent sipping – Falling asleep with milk or juice, or sipping sweet drinks throughout the day, can leave sugar on the teeth for long periods and increase the risk of decay.

Treatments for Cavities

Depending on the stage and depth of cavities, treatment may include:

  • Fillings – A filling is used to remove decay and rebuild the damaged portion of the tooth with a durable material. This stops the cavity from growing and helps protect the tooth from further breakdown.
  • Crowns – A crown covers and protects a tooth with a large cavity when a simple filling may not provide enough support. It helps restore strength and seal the tooth from further damage.
  • Baby Root Canals (Pulpotomy, aka Pulp Therapy) – If a cavity reaches the inner pulp of a baby tooth, pulp therapy can remove the damaged tissue and help save the tooth. This helps prevent infection and keeps the tooth in place for normal development.
  • Resin Infiltration – For very early areas of enamel breakdown, resin infiltration may help strengthen the tooth and slow the progression of decay before a larger cavity forms.

When to See a Dentist

Consider scheduling an appointment if your child:

  • Has visible dark spots, pits, or holes in a tooth
  • Complains of sensitivity or pain with sweets, cold foods, or chewing
  • Food keeps getting stuck in the same area of the mouth
  • Has bad breath or irritation around a tooth that does not improve

Related Symptoms

Concerned About Cavities?

Cavities are often a sign that something needs attention. We’d love to evaluate your child’s symptoms and make their visit comfortable, positive, and stress-free. Schedule an appointment today and get the answers you need.