Most people know that baby teeth don’t last forever but people are often surprised to learn how important these tiny teeth are. A common question that parents ask:
“If these teeth aren’t permanent, why do we work so hard to take care of them if they are just going to fall out?”
It turns out that these baby teeth (aka primary teeth) are really important for your child’s overall oral health, development, as well as confidence.
For starters, while it is true that these teeth don’t last forever, any cavities or decay would still potentially cause pain and discomfort (which we want to avoid if possible!)
Additionally, the first of the baby teeth (aka primary teeth) typically fall out starting around 6 years old, with the last ones falling out around 12-13. So even though they aren’t forever, they are there for most of their childhood.
Let’s take a look into what makes these little teeth so crucial to take care of.
Before we begin, it is important to keep in mind that there are situations where a treatment plan may include extracting a baby tooth before “its time”. Your dentist considers a lot of different things before making such a decision but sometimes extractions are preferable to something like significant infection.
Baby Teeth are Space Holders for Adult Teeth
Baby teeth are trailblazers. They pave the path and help make space in your child’s mouth for their permanent tooth replacements that are developing underneath.
If a baby tooth is lost earlier than expected due to something like decay, nearby teeth might start to move into the empty space, causing:
- Crowding
- Crooked Teeth
- Misaligned Bites
- The Need for Orthodontic Treatment (Braces)
Healthy baby teeth help hold the door open for healthy adult teeth.
They’re Essential for Speech
If you try making a “th”, “s”, or “f” sound, chances are you likely had to use your teeth to help. Your child’s front teeth are an important part of making these sounds and for early speech development.
Missing or decayed teeth may make some of these sounds harder to make and children may develop different speech habits in order to compensate.
Keeping baby teeth healthy helps your child build confidence in their speech.
Childhood Cavities Can Lead to Infections
Untreated decay in baby teeth can lead to the complications including:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Infections
- Emergency dental visits
If the cavities and infection continue to spread without being treated, the development and growth of the permanent teeth below could also be impacted. Properly caring for and treating issues with baby teeth can help avoid long-term complications
Healthy Teeth build Confidence and Good Habits
A bright and healthy smile helps kids feel confident in smiling, and we want happy smiley kids!
Additionally, when children are proud of their smiles and the hard work it takes to maintain their oral health, they build a sense of ownership and are motivated to take care of their teeth as they grow.
It is important to teach good dental habits like these as early as possible:
- Brushing twice a day
- Flossing daily
- Regular dental visits
- Healthy eating
Chances are, if they can learn to take care of their baby teeth, they will be better equipped to take care of their adult teeth in the future.
Ready for your visit?
If you have any questions or want to start making dental visits a part of your child’s dental care routine, come see what makes Smile Garden pediatric dentistry special. Sign up for an appointment or feel free to contact us.
Let’s grow together!