Tooth decay in children: overlooked signs and how to prevent them early

Have you noticed brown, yellow spots or small holes in your child’s teeth? Or maybe you’ve wondered if it’s normal that at 2-3 years of age dental problems are already occurring? The truth is that decayed teeth in children have become an increasingly common reality, even from an early age.

At INO Dental, every day we see children with bad teeth, some as young as 2 years old and others as young as 3 years old who already need complex treatments.

It’s not just about aesthetics, but general health, nutrition, sleep and self-confidence.

Let’s talk honestly, with clear examples and simple solutions, about what you can do today to prevent, treat and protect your child’s teeth.

How do you recognize decayed teeth in children?

You don’t have to wait for pain or howls in the middle of the night to realize something is wrong. The signs can be subtle and, if you spot them early, everything can be dealt with quickly and stress-free.

Early signs of cavities in children:

  • Opaque whiteheads – early signs of demineralization.
  • Brownish or yellow spots – these indicate the beginning of a cavity.
  • Visible holes – signs of advanced cavities.
  • Persistent bad breath.
  • Pain when chewing or cold/heat sensitivity.

If you notice any of these, it’s time for a consultation with a children dentist Bucharest.

Does your child have cavities? Here's how to recognize the signs and prevent them

Why do cavities appear so early?

Many parents wonder: “How is that possible? He doesn’t even have all his teeth!” . Well, baby teeth are much more sensitive than permanent teeth, and modern lifestyles contribute massively to tooth decay.

Most common causes:

  • Bottle with sweetened milk or tea, especially before bedtime.
  • Processed, high-sugar foods – biscuits, crisps, sodas, sweet cereals.
  • No or incorrect brushing.
  • Lack of regular check-ups at the dentist.

Yes, even 2-year-olds can get decayed teeth if these habits persist.

What do you risk if you ignore the problem?

It’s easy to say “They’re just baby teeth, they’ll fall out anyway”, but the truth is different. Untreated cavities can have serious effects:

  • Severe pain and infection.
  • Feeding and speech difficulties.
  • Incorrect eruption of permanent teeth.
  • Fear of the dentist, sometimes for life.
  • More expensive visits and more complicated interventions.

Prevention and early intervention are essential. And a doctor specialized in Pedodontics Bucharest knows exactly how to manage situations gently and effectively.

When should you first take him to the dentist?

Surprising to many parents, but the first visit should take place by the age of 1, or as soon as the first tooth appears.

After that, the recommendation is:

  • Check every 6 months, even if there is no pain or obvious signs.

At INO Dental, our children’s dentistry team offers a safe, calm, friendly environment – where your little one will feel at ease and you’ll get all the advice you need.

How do you prevent cavities in children?

The good news is that prevention is simple, gentle and effective. It all starts with everyday habits at home.

What you can actually do:

Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush.

  • Use age-appropriate fluoride toothpaste.
  • Avoid bottles of milk/sugar before bedtime.
  • Offer healthy snacks – fruit, cheese, vegetables.
  • Give him plain water, not sweetened drinks.
  • Make brushing a fun family time.
Tooth decay in children: the signs many parents ignore and how to prevent them

More importantly, choose an experienced pedodontics practice so that your little one has a positive experience from the start.

What treatments exist for decayed teeth in children?

At INO Dental, each treatment is tailored to the needs of the child’s age, level of anxiety and cooperation. Here’s what we can do:

  • Professional fluorides – strengthen enamel and prevent tooth decay.
  • Dental sealants – block areas where cavities form.
  • Minimally invasive treatments for early caries.
  • Aesthetic restorations with biocompatible materials.
  • Treatments under general anesthesia (only if absolutely necessary).

All in a gentle, colorful, fear-free, emotionally supportive and empathetic environment. This is what real Dentistry for Children is all about.

Did you know that…?

  • Over 70% of Romanian 6-year-olds have caries?
  • Do more than 30% of 2-year-olds already show signs of demineralization?
  • In Romania, only 10% of children under 3 go to the dentist every year?

Cavities are NOT an inevitable consequence. They are preventable.

With simple habits and regular check-ups, you can avoid trauma, pain and costly treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. When should we start brushing?
    Right from the first tooth! Before that, you can wipe your gums with damp gauze.
  2. What type of toothpaste do we use?
    One with age-appropriate fluoride. For 0-2 years: max 500 ppm fluoride, as much as a grain of rice.
  3. How quickly does decay develop in children?
    In baby teeth, decay can develop in just a few weeks, especially without proper hygiene.
  4. Is the treatment painful?
    No. At INO Dental, we use modern, painless methods and a warm, playful approach. Your child will feel safe.

Want to see what a visit to the dentist can be like for children?

We have prepared a real video, posted on TikTok, which shows the atmosphere in our office and how relaxing a dental experience can be for little ones.

We’re waiting for you and your little one!

You can help him smile with confidence

Baby cavities are not an inevitable stage, and baby teeth do matter. With a little daily attention, a healthy diet and regular check-ups, you can help your little one grow up healthy, pain-free, without fear of the dentist and with a genuine and beautiful smile.

At INO Dental, we care for dozens of children with decayed teeth every day. And we know that what makes the difference is not just the treatment, but the way the child is listened to, understood and encouraged. That’s why we specialize in Pedodontics, so that every little patient gets the attention and empathy they deserve.

You can find us in Bucharest, at two easily accessible locations:

  • Calea Floreasca, Nr. 76, Sector 1, Bucharest
  • Șos. Pantelimon, Nr. 10, Sector 2, București

📞 Schedule now!

Call us on 0721 584 935 or 0770 699 370, or make a quick and secure online appointment.

We look forward to welcoming you and your little onein a place where children’s dentistry is gentle, playful and fearless.

Sources and references: