
21/09/2025
🦷Ignoring cavities in baby teeth risks infecting the smile of the future.👶
Many people think that cavities in baby teeth don’t matter because “they will fall out anyway.” This is one of the most dangerous myths in dentistry. Baby teeth, also called primary teeth, are not only important for chewing and speaking — they also act as natural placeholders, guiding the proper growth and alignment of the permanent teeth that develop right beneath them. When decay in a baby tooth is ignored, infection can pe*****te through the roots and spread to the underlying permanent tooth bud, which is still forming inside the jawbone.
Scientific studies have shown that untreated cavities in children can lead to developmental defects in permanent teeth, such as discoloration, weak enamel, or even structural malformations. In severe cases, the infection can cause abscesses, swelling, and pain that require urgent medical attention. Beyond damaging the future tooth, untreated decay also increases the risk of misalignment, since the early loss of a baby tooth disrupts the spacing and growth pattern of the jaw.
Preventing this cascade of problems is simpler than treating them later. Regular dental checkups, fluoride use, proper brushing, and limiting sugary snacks play a key role in protecting baby teeth. Parents should remember: cavities are not “just cavities” — they are infections. And infections, if left unchecked, will spread. Protecting a child’s baby teeth is essentially protecting their future permanent smile.
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This post is for public awareness. It does not replace professional dental advice.