Decalcification in my 26 mo ds

[Think of Winter]

Can anyone tell me a bit about decalcification? My dentist looked at my ds' teeth yesterday, and told us that the discoloration on his front teeth is decalcification. I made an appt w/ a pediatric dentist, but I'd like to go in informed. I know it's a stage of tooth decay, and am pretty concerned. These teeth are practically brand new.

We are still bfing. He dislikes brushing, but we do manage to do a bit every day. I'm afraid the main problems are 1. His dad has "soft" teeth w/ lots of problems and 2. we treat low blood sugars with candy, often during the night.

Should I be kicking myself for not giving him the oral fluoride vitamins that his pediatrician suggested? When I researched this, my understanding was that oral fluoride was risky and had little benefit compared to topically applied fluoride. We use Tom's of Maine toothpaste children's toothpaste.

TIA.

Colleen

[whoamama]

Never kick yourself. 3 of my 4 kids had this problem at even younger ages than yours. I am sure genetics is involved, though you'll never find a dentist to admit so. Keep cleaning everyday normally and find a dentist you and Will both feel comfortable with. Despite having alot of problems with their primary teeth, my older kids have great adult teeth.

[RadiantMama]

My dd was diagnosed with this (n.b. the pediatrician dentist sucked! went right for her mouth...find a dentist who cares and treats the child well!!!) at 20 months...we both started taking calcium supplements and the decalcification stopped, even though there are two brown spots (i think they are cavities, but they might just be "dents") they haven't gotten any bigger.

we did also do three duraphat topical flouride treatments.

good luck! and don't worry!!!

[Think of Winter]

Thank you for your replies. OK, I'm not going to freak out, at least until we see the pediatric dentist. Anyone have any other suggestions for stopping the decay? Aside from limiting certain foods? That's not a good option for us. Thanks!