Cavities in Kids: How to Spot Them Early
Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease of childhood — and the most preventable. Learn the early warning signs.
Written byDr. Muhiuddin Mahmud Galib
Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease of childhood — far more common than asthma. The good news: caught early, it is almost always reversible or simple to treat.
What to look for
- White spots along the gum line — the very first sign of demineralisation.
- Brown or black pits on the chewing surfaces.
- Sensitivity to sweet, hot, or cold foods.
- Bad breath that doesn't go away after brushing.
Why early matters
A white-spot lesion can often be remineralised with fluoride and better brushing — no drilling at all. Wait until it becomes a cavity and the tooth needs a filling; wait longer and it may need a crown or extraction.
Twice-yearly checkups exist precisely to catch decay while it's still a white spot.
Prevention beats treatment
Fluoride toothpaste, sealants on the back teeth, a low-sugar diet, and regular checkups together prevent the large majority of childhood cavities.
Written by
Dr. Muhiuddin Mahmud Galib
BDS, MS (Pediatric Dentistry)
Dr. Muhiuddin Mahmud Galib is a pediatric dental specialist (BDS, MS in Pediatric Dentistry) and Assistant Professor in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at Bangladesh Medical University. He has completed special training in Thailand and India, with a focus on conscious sedation, dental treatment under general anaesthesia, and caring for children with special needs.
