Cavities in baby teeth are common, and they are worth treating. Health Canada data cited by the clinic shows about 1 in 4 children has at least one baby tooth cavity by age 5. At Brampton Smiles we use the gentlest treatment that works, tooth-coloured materials only, and we explain every step in child-friendly words.
Why do kids get cavities?
Bacteria in plaque turn sugars and starches into acid that dissolves enamel. Baby tooth enamel is thinner and softer, so decay moves faster. How often sugar is in the mouth matters more than how much. Sipping juice or sweet drinks all day, or a bedtime bottle, keeps teeth under acid attack for hours.
Signs of a cavity
Early decay usually does not hurt, which is why regular check-ups matter. Dr. Abbas uses exams and bitewing X-rays. Watch for:
- white, chalky or brown spots that do not brush away
- sensitivity to cold, sweet or sticky foods
- visible holes or dark spots
- chewing on one side only
- bad breath that does not go away
- a pimple on the gum near a back tooth
- pain at night
Treatment options, gentlest first
- Fluoride therapy. For very early spots where the surface is not broken. No drilling or numbing.
- Tooth-coloured filling. Removes the decay and rebuilds the tooth with composite. We do not place new amalgam.
- Crown. A pre-made crown protects a baby molar that has lost too much structure for a filling. It stays until the tooth falls out naturally.
- Pulp treatment. If decay has reached the nerve, the tooth is treated, sealed and crowned to keep it in place.
- Extraction. A last resort. If a baby tooth is lost early, a space maintainer may be needed.
A small filling takes 30 to 45 minutes. Larger cavities or very young children may be referred to a paediatric dentist or a hospital program.
Why treat baby teeth at all?
Untreated decay can cause an abscess that threatens the adult tooth growing underneath. Losing a baby molar too early can close the space the adult tooth needs, which may lead to orthodontic problems later.
How we keep kids comfortable
- Topical numbing gel before any injection, with warmed anesthetic.
- Every tool is explained and shown first.
- A raised hand stops everything immediately.
- Longer appointments for anxious children, with oral sedation when appropriate.
- Parents may stay in the room with younger children.
- A no-treatment introductory visit for very anxious children.
Coverage and cost
Children's fillings are covered by CDCP for eligible children, and by most extended plans. We confirm coverage and give a written estimate before treatment, and direct-bill on the day. We direct-bill Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield and CDCP, and offer 0% in-house payment plans.
Before Your Visit
- Tell your child they will "count and clean teeth". Skip scary words.
- Note which tooth hurts and when.
- Bring the CDCP or insurance card.
- Let your child eat beforehand, if appropriate, since they will be numb for a few hours.
After Your Treatment
- Numbness usually lasts 2 to 3 hours. Keep your child from chewing until it wears off, and watch that they do not bite their cheek or lip.
- Offer soft foods first.
- Mild sensitivity for a few days is normal.
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and limit how often sugary snacks and drinks are given.
- Call us if there is swelling, a fever, ongoing pain or a filling that feels high.
Visit Brampton Smiles
50 Sunny Meadow Blvd, Unit 300, Brampton, ON L6R 0Y7, near Bovaird Drive East. Phone: (905) 793-8668.
Hours: Mon, Wed, Thu 10 AM to 7 PM. Tue, Fri 10 AM to 5 PM. Sat 9 AM to 2 PM. Sun closed.
Book your child's cavity check today.
Related pages
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a cavity be reversed without a filling?
Only at a very early stage when the surface is still intact, with fluoride and home changes.
Why fill a baby tooth that will fall out?
To prevent pain and infection and to keep space for the adult tooth.
Do you use mercury fillings?
No. We use tooth-coloured composite only.
How often should my child be checked?
Every 6 months, starting by age 1. Higher-risk children may need visits more often.
Does it hurt?
We use numbing gel first, then a gentle injection. Raising a hand stops treatment right away.
Does CDCP cover children's fillings?
Yes, for eligible children.
What if my child has a toothache tonight?
Call us at (905) 793-8668 in our open hours. Same-day dental emergencies are welcome.