I have a 12 month old. He has his bottom and top teeth. We do a little brushing and he’s just starting on some mild solid food. What worries me is he has white spots on his teeth. I thought that was a sign of decalcification. If we’re brushing, why would he have decalcification this soon?

Trish T. – Washington

Trish,

You’re right that the white spots are a sign of decalcification. It’s concerning on a child so young, especially when you say you’ve already started his oral hygiene. That’s a good thing that you have, because likely things would be worse if you hadn’t.

There may be an issue with the way your son’s teeth are developing. Don’t panic. It can usually be handled if dealt with sooner rather than later. It’s likely your pediatric dentist will recommend extra fluoride treatments as well as some sealings as your son’s molars develop.

Just be sure to be seen. It won’t be a full visit, such as an adult gets. It’s a quick young child’s appointment. There’s even a special billing code for it so you’re not charged too much.

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