Most kids are excited when their primary (baby) teeth become loose and start to fall out. It is a milestone in their development and a noticeable sign that they’re growing up. But what if those teeth come out too early? Or what if they suffer significant damage? Some parents fall into the trap of thinking that primary teeth aren’t that important, so dental visits during a child’s earliest years aren’t as critical as they are later on. As part of National Children’s Dental Health Month, a family dentist is here to set the record straight and explain just how critical primary teeth are.
The Importance of Primary Teeth
Caring for primary teeth is pivotal for a number of reasons:
- Primary teeth help a child speak and chew. Children and adults alike require teeth to proper enunciate certain sounds. The teeth can also play a huge role in encouraging a child to take in proper nutrition; if their baby teeth are in pain or fall out early, they may not want to eat a balanced diet that includes raw fruits and vegetables.
- Primary teeth can affect a child’s mental and social development. Decayed or painful baby teeth can harm a child’s self-esteem and make it difficult for them to concentrate in school.
- A child won’t automatically learn good habits when their permanent teeth emerge. If a child learns good oral hygiene principles when they are still very young, they’re more likely to develop lifelong, smile-friendly habits. Conversely, if a child doesn’t learn the importance of oral health while they still have their primary teeth, their permanent teeth may suffer as a result.
- Primary teeth aid in the development of permanent teeth. If baby teeth come out too early, the permanent ones underneath them may not develop correctly, leading to the need for orthodontic treatment.
Caring for Your Child’s Smile
Clearly, oral healthcare is essential from the time a child is very young. To make sure your little one’s smile has the best possible start in life, you should:
- Bring them to the dentist regularly. Beginning around the time a child’s first baby tooth erupts, they should attend routine cleanings and exams every six months.
- Teach them proper oral hygiene techniques. You may need to brush and floss your child’s teeth until their dexterity reaches the point where they can do it on their own. Even after that, you should still supervise them to make sure they are doing a thorough job.
- Focus on nutrition. Encourage your child to develop a taste for nutritious snacks, likes apples and cheese, rather than sugary goodies that can damage teeth.
In many ways, primary teeth are just as important as permanent ones. Caring for your child’s smile from an early age will set them up for a lifetime of good oral health.
About the Author
Dr. James A. Moreau, Jr., is a general dentist with nearly 40 years of experience. He enjoys working with patients of all ages. If you would like his help to protect your child’s smile, contact our office at 985-809-7645.