General Dentistry

Children’s tooth decay: 7 things every parent should know

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.
Early signs of children’s tooth decay including white spots on baby teeth

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)
  • Falling asleep with a bottle (aka bottle rot)
  • Poor brushing habits
  • Lack of fluoride
  • Infrequent kids dentist visits

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:

Image showing early stages of tooth decay in children.
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.

Early tooth decay signs:

  • Brown or white spots on the teeth
  • A dull, white band along the gum line
  • Bad breath, even after brushing
  • Sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods

Advanced signs of dental decay: 

  • Holes or pits in the teeth
  • Complaints of tooth pain or discomfort
  • Avoiding certain foods or chewing on one side
  • Swelling, redness or pus around the gum

If you notice any of these, it’s best to visit your Chelsea Heights dental clinic as soon as possible.

What are the stages of tooth decay in children?

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

Illustration of  stages of children’s tooth decay from plaque formation to caries and cavity.
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:

  1. Book an appointment with a kids dentist as soon as possible.
  2. Avoid sugary drinks or snacks until they’re seen.
  3. Keep brushing gently and maintain oral hygiene.
  4. 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
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.

Mum and young daughter brush their teeth together as the mother supervises.
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.

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.

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