Dental cavities form when minerals are lost and the tooth enamel breaks down in three areas: smooth surface, pit and fissures, and root decay. The enamel is the hard, outer layer of the tooth, essentially the first line of defense. Unlike other parts of your body, it accumulates on the teeth. The acids attack the surface layer creating small holes. An untreated cavity is permanent damage to the tooth's enamel.
Are the first symptoms of a dental cavity harmless? The short answer is no. So the next time your child mentions any of the following symptoms, help protect their enamel and schedule an appointment for the proper treatment. Better still, stay on top of those routine dental exams. Your enamel will thank you.