Cosmetic Dentistry
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!
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:
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.
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:
If you notice any of these, it’s best to visit your Chelsea Heights dental clinic as soon as possible.
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.
If you suspect your child has dental decay, here’s what to do next:
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!)
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 |
| Mild–moderate decay | Dental fillings to restore the tooth |
| Severe 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 (and cheaper) than the cure. The earlier you start, the better the habits stick!
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.
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.
Worried about cost? We’ve got your back. Check out our flexible payment options to make quality dental care more accessible.
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.
