Did you know that 58% of Nebraska third-graders have already battled cavities, and 47% of kids right here in Lancaster County? Tooth decay isn’t just a minor inconvenience; it’s the most common chronic condition worldwide. That’s why Antelope Creek Family Dentistry is passionate about treating tooth decay in children before small spots turn into big problems.
How Cavities Form: The Plaque–Sugar–Acid Cycle
- Plaque Bacteria — Sticky biofilm clings to young enamel.
- Free Sugars — Juice boxes, sports drinks, and even gummy vitamins feed the bacteria.
- Acid Attack — Bacteria convert sugars into acids that dissolve minerals, creating weak spots that become cavities.
When this cycle repeats without interruption, decay races through thin baby-tooth enamel and can jump to permanent teeth before they fully erupt.
Prevention: Your First Line of Defense
Consistent Toothbrushing
Twice daily with a pea-sized dab of fluoride toothpaste (1,000 ppm for under six; 1,450 ppm for older kids). Switch to an electric brush or leaderboard video timer to keep sessions fun and thorough.
Fluoride Use
Lincoln’s water is fluoridated, but children who drink bottled or well water may need fluoride supplements. Ask our team for a personalized recommendation.
Limit Sugary Snacks and Sips
Prolonged sipping is cavity fuel. Encourage water between meals, and save sweets for dessert when saliva is flowing.
Regular Dental Checkups
Six-month visits let us spot soft enamel early and apply sealants or varnishes before decay sets in.
Treatment Options at Antelope Creek Family Dentistry
Tooth-Colored Fillings
Our BPA-free composite resin blends seamlessly with baby and adult teeth, restoring strength without the metallic look.
Pediatric Stainless-Steel and Zirconia Crowns
For deeper decay, prefabricated crowns protect the tooth until it naturally exfoliates, or zirconia crowns offer a white, aesthetic alternative.
Pulp Therapy (Baby-Tooth “Root Canal”)
If infection reaches the nerve, gentle pulpotomy saves the tooth’s position in the arch and prevents spacing problems later.
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)
A quick, needle-free option that arrests early decay, which is perfect for wiggly toddlers or children with special needs.
Education and Customized Prevention Plans
We love turning little patients into cavity-fighting superheroes with interactive nutrition talks and hands-on brushing demos.
Protect Your Child’s Smile Today
If you’re searching for children’s tooth decay treatment in Lincoln, NE, schedule an appointment with Antelope Creek Family Dentistry today. Together, we can keep Nebraska’s kids cavity-free!