Caring For Your Young Child’s Teeth
Even though baby teeth do fall out, it’s still important to care for them, as they are critical to your child’s dental health and development of their permanent teeth. As soon as the first tooth erupts, or breaks through the gum, you can begin setting good oral health habits. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child visit a dentist by the age of 1 or within 6 months after the first tooth erupts. Primary teeth, or as many people call them, baby teeth, begin to grow around 6 months of age. Daily cleaning and regular dental checkups will set your child up for a lifetime of good oral health.
Importance of Baby Teeth
Caring for baby teeth is important to the development of oral health for reasons such as:
- Healthy eating habits — A child’s first set of teeth helps them properly chew their food so that they can gain the nutrients and resources they need to grow strong and healthy. Baby teeth can have tooth decay if they are not properly cared for, which can make eating painful and difficult for the child and cause them to reject certain foods.
- Facial structure — Baby teeth provide a foundation for the lips, tongue and cheeks and also support the facial muscles for a full and healthy face shape.
- Speech aid — Baby teeth, just like permanent teeth, play a role in how we properly make sounds and speak, greatly influencing our ability to communicate effectively.
- Preparation for permanent teeth — Baby teeth help guide permanent teeth into their proper position and give them a healthy start. When baby teeth encounter tooth decay, it can damage the permanent teeth that develop under them. This can result in infection and crowded or crooked teeth.
- Good oral hygiene — Caring for your child’s teeth at an early age and teaching them good oral hygiene habits can set them up for a lifetime of good dental health.
If you have questions about your child’s dental health needs in Frisco, TX, please call our office and we will be happy to help. You and your family’s dental health is our top priority and we are here to help you.
