With a Bachelor or Health Science and a Master in Dentistry from La Trobe University, Dr Daniela's favourite thing about dentistry is treating children. She is an expert at making tears and fears disappear, and loves teaching kids excellent dental habits for life.
Worried your little one might have tooth decay? You’re not alone—and you’re not a bad parent. Dental decay is one of the most common childhood health conditions, but the good news is that it’s also preventable and treatable. In this blog, we’ll help you spot the signs of children’s tooth decay early, know what to do if you suspect it’s already set in, and learn how to prevent it from happening again. Let’s protect those tiny teeth together!
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What is tooth decay—and what causes it?
Tooth decay in kids is the breakdown of the tooth’s outer layer (enamel), caused by a build-up of plaque and acid-producing bacteria. These acids form when sugars and starches in food and drinks mix with saliva and bacteria in the mouth.
Kid’s dental decay (AKA cavities or dental caries) is common. According to Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) data on kid’s dental health, more than 40% of Australian children have decay in their baby teeth.
Causes of tooth decay in children include:
Frequent sugary foods and drinks (especially fruit juices or soft drinks)
Even baby teeth matter—a lot! They pave the way for healthy adult teeth, speech development, and proper chewing. Knowing what causes dental decay in young children can help you prevent it early and avoid bigger problems later on.
What are the early signs of tooth decay in children?
Dental decay can be sneaky at first, especially in young kids who might not complain of pain. Here are some signs of children's tooth decay to look out for:
Early signs of tooth decay can present as brown or white spots on the teeth, whereas more advanced decay may show as holes in the tooth.
Tooth decay in kids tends to progress through several stages—some reversible, others not. Catching it early can make a huge difference. If left untreated, it can lead to pain, infection, and cause damage to adult teeth waiting to erupt.
Stage
What it looks like
What it means
1. Early demineralisation
White spots, no pain
Tooth enamel starting to weaken
2. Enamel decay
Yellow or brown spots
Decay is advancing into the enamel, forming cavities (small holes)
3. Dentin decay
Visible holes or pain
Damage has reached deeper layers and may cause sensitivity
4. Pulp involvement
Swelling and pain
Decay has reached the centre of the tooth (pulp). Treatment may involve root canal therapy
5. Abscess formation
Bacteria can invade the tooth, causing infection and pain
Immediate dental treatment — extraction or root canal
Catching tooth decay early is vital as if left untreated, it can lead to pain, infection, and cause damage to adult teeth waiting to erupt.
What should I do if I think my child has tooth decay?
If you suspect your child has dental decay, here’s what to do next:
Book an appointment with a kids dentist as soon as possible.
Avoid sugary drinks or snacks until they’re seen.
Keep brushing gently and maintain oral hygiene.
Let your child know it’s not scary—we’ll make it a positive experience!
At Hello Dental, we’re passionate about creating a warm, kid-friendly space that helps your child feel calm and supported. (There’s even a cubby house in our waiting area!)
How is tooth decay in children treated?
Kid’s tooth decay treatment will depend on how advanced the decay is. In other words, at what stage the disease is at. Here’s what you can expect:
Decay stage
Possible treatments
Early decay
Deep clean, fluoride treatment, or fissure sealants to prevent further damage to enamel and stop the progression of decay
Extraction to protect the developing adult tooth underneath. If it’s an adult tooth — root canal therapy to save the tooth
If your child is eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule, many of these treatments may be partially or fully covered.
Preventing tooth decay really is easier than the cure. The earlier you start teaching your little one about oral health, the better the habits stick!
How to prevent tooth decay in children
Preventing tooth decay really is easier (and cheaper) than the cure. The earlier you start, the better the habits stick!
Tips to prevent tooth decay in kids:
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste (with supervision)
Start flossing when two teeth touch
Avoid sugary snacks and fruit juices—especially before bed
Never send kids to bed with a bottle (unless it’s tap water)
Book regular dental check-ups at a young age
HINT: Fissure sealants are a great preventative tool too—they’re a thin coating applied to molars to block out bacteria and food particles.
Got a question about brushing your child’s pearly whites or concerned about their dental care? Our Chelsea Heights dental clinic loves helping families with easy, practical advice. Give us a call today.
How much does a kids’ dental check-up cost?
At Hello Dental, a child dental check-up starts at just $150—and includes a comfortable clean, check, and oral health advice tailored to your child.
Children should have their first dental check up by 12 months of age or within six months of their first tooth erupting, whichever comes first.
Don’t forget, eligible families can also access the Child Dental Benefits Schedule, which provides up to $1,095 in dental services over two years for eligible kids.
Whether it’s a tiny spot on a tooth or you notice your child’s unusually irritable, a full examination and early intervention is the best gift you can give your child’s future smile. Come visit your local dentist in Chelsea Heights. Call us on 03 8905 3999 or book online in just a few clicks.
New to Chelsea Heights? We’re kid-approved.
From cubby houses to comfortable check-ups, we make dental visits fun (yes, really).