Dental: Suspected Toddler Tooth Decay

[fyrflymommy]

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[malamamama]

I would definitely take her to the dentist, so you can know exactly what it is that you are seeing. It doesn't have to be a ped dentist. Some general dentists do great with kids, better than some peds in fact.
If it is indeed decay, the flouride will slow it, but it won't stop it unless it is limited to the enamel. In this case the flouride can remineralize the tooth and stop the decay. But, if it has gone beyond the enamel, then there is no stopping it. And left to decay, it will just rot. And could cause serious problems in the root area.
In addition, if it is decay, the bacteria numbers will multiply making all the other teeth vulnerable to decay.
Best to check around for a dentist you can work with and in the meantime, react as if this is decay. Brush as often as possible, although just twice a day with flouride is best. Other times with non-flouride. Step up the foods that help fight the bacteria and neutralize the acids....nuts and nut butters, cheese, apples, grapes, whole grains. Encourage water with, after, and in between meals. Encourage swishing water in the mouth after eating, especially when you can't brush.
When you do take her to the dentist, they will want/need to do x-rays to determine the extent of decay.
Depending on where you are, maybe there are some mamas here with some dental referrals for you....good luck!