Brown Cavitations

Brown cavitations represent areas where loss of enamel has exposed underlying dentin.

Appearance & Symptoms

• Anterior upper incisors are typically affected first as posterior teeth emerge later.
• Lesions are initially pale yellow and become progressively darker as they become stained.
• Teeth may be sensitive to thermal changes and sweet or sour foods or drinks.
• Young children are unable to articulate symptoms.

Treatment & Referral

• Immediate dental referral should be arranged.
• Small cavities may be treated with fluoride releasing restorative materials and not require local anesthesia or high speed drills to stabilize their progression.
• Provide dietary and oral hygiene counseling.
• Use fluoride to arrest lesions not requiring restoration