I took my six-year-old to the pediatric dentist last week and she had cavities again. Two this time. She’s already had four others. Two of those turned into extractions and the other two needed baby root canals.
The thing is, we’ve been vigilant. Seriously vigilant. She doesn’t get juice or soda and I don’t bring anything sugary into the house. Ever since the last round, I’ve done 100% of her brushing for her. Always at least twice per day and I do three when we’re home together on the weekends. Yes, we’re also using fluoridated toothpaste.
This is upsetting as it is. I wanted to know what else we could be doing or why she keeps getting cavities, so I asked the dentist while we were in. Instead of helping, she told me it was my fault for not doing more to take care of my daughter’s teeth. I told her what I was doing and she replied, “Well, your daughter’s cavities say otherwise.” She basically called me a liar.
There must be other things that could be causing this, right? How do I get her to take me seriously and help us find the cause?
Sincerely,
Kim
Dear Kim,
So sorry to hear you are going through all this! Let’s break your question down.
Lots of Things Could Be Causing Your Daughter’s Cavities
She could have a genetic predisposition to have more cavities. She could have some form of structural anomalies or the enamel may not have developed correctly. She could also have an undiagnosed medical condition causing the issue. The bottom line is that you know what you’ve been doing at home and if that isn’t working, then keep being your daughter’s champion until you find a solution or answers.
Get a Second Opinion (And a New Pediatric Dentist)
The pediatric dentist should have taken you more seriously to begin with. Unfortunately, if that’s her nature, there’s not a whole lot you can do to turn her around. Even if you convinced her to keep looking, she wouldn’t have the attitude of someone who cares. She’d go into it to check off boxes.
Instead of pursuing this with her, have a consult with another dentist and touch base with your daughter’s pediatrician too. If there’s going to be a lapse between now and your appointments with them, there’s probably no harm in letting the current dentist take care of these cavities. It sounds like they tend to progress fast with your daughter or the dentist is missing them until they’re large. You don’t want them left untreated for long. Best of luck to the both of you.
This blog is sponsored by Dr. Raymond Bolt, a provider of pediatric dental services in Auburn, AL.