Why Do We Fill Cavities on Baby Teeth?

Many parents are surprised when we recommend filling a cavity on a baby tooth. After all, baby teeth fall out… right? Yes—but they still matter a lot more than most people realize. Below is a clear breakdown of why treating cavities in baby teeth is important, and how it helps protect your child’s comfort, health, and future smile.

Baby Teeth Have Big Jobs

Even though they’re temporary, baby teeth play a critical role in your child’s development.

Baby teeth help with:

• Chewing food properly for good nutrition

• Speech development

• Holding space for adult teeth

• Guiding adult teeth into the correct position

• Building confidence with smiling and talking

When a baby tooth is damaged by decay, those jobs are compromised.

Cavities Don’t “Pause” Just Because Teeth Are Temporary

A cavity is an infection—and it doesn’t stop on its own.

If left untreated, cavities can:

• Grow larger and deeper

• Cause pain or sensitivity

• Lead to infection or abscess

• Spread bacteria to nearby teeth

• Require more extensive treatment later

Filling a cavity early keeps the problem small and manageable.

Untreated Cavities Can Cause Pain (Even If Kids Don’t Always Say It)

Children don’t always tell us when something hurts—or they may not realize pain isn’t normal.

Signs your child may be uncomfortable include:

• Avoiding certain foods

• Chewing on one side

• Trouble sleeping

• Irritability or behavioral changes

• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods

Treating cavities early helps prevent unnecessary discomfort.

Baby Teeth Protect Adult Teeth Still Growing Underneath

Under every baby tooth is a developing adult tooth.

When decay is left untreated:

• Infection can damage the adult tooth bud

• Adult teeth may erupt weak, discolored, or malformed

• Early tooth loss can cause crowding or alignment issues later

Healthy baby teeth help ensure healthier adult teeth.

Early Tooth Loss Can Lead to Orthodontic Issues

If a baby tooth is lost too early due to decay:

• Neighboring teeth can shift into the empty space

• Adult teeth may come in crooked or blocked

• Future orthodontic treatment may become more complex

Keeping baby teeth healthy helps preserve proper spacing.

Fillings Are Quick, Gentle, and Child-Focused

At Kids PV, fillings are:

• Designed specifically for children

• Performed with comfort in mind

• Explained in kid-friendly language

• Focused on creating positive dental experiences

Our goal is to fix the tooth while keeping your child relaxed and confident.

Treating Cavities Builds Healthy Dental Habits Early

When kids learn that:

• Cavities are fixable

• Dental visits aren’t scary

• Teeth are worth taking care of

They’re more likely to:

• Maintain good oral hygiene

• Feel comfortable at dental visits

• Carry healthy habits into adulthood

Baby teeth may be temporary—but their impact is not.

Filling cavities on baby teeth helps:

• Prevent pain and infection

• Protect developing adult teeth

• Support proper growth and alignment

• Build lifelong dental confidence

If you ever have questions about treatment recommendations, our team at Ponte Vedra Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is always happy to talk through options and help you make the best decision for your child.