The Importance of Baby Teeth
Just because your child’s primary teeth, often known as “baby teeth,” eventually fall out, doesn’t mean they’re not important. Primary teeth play an important role in your child’s overall health, development, and well-being.
Tooth decay can happen at any age, so much like your own permanent teeth, your child’s primary teeth need professional and at-home dental care. It’s recommended that children visit the dentist within six months of their first tooth appearing, and certainly by the time they are one year old.
In addition to checking for tooth decay and other pediatric dental problems, your dentist will show you the best ways to start your child on a lifetime of good oral health habits.
What Is the Purpose of Primary Teeth?
By the age of three, most children will likely have a full set of primary teeth (or baby) teeth. These little teeth play a big role in your child’s health and development. They:
What Happens If Baby Teeth Aren’t Taken Care Of?
When baby teeth aren’t properly cared for, it can lead to more than just cavities. Dental decay in young children can quickly turn into infections or abscesses—painful conditions that may require urgent treatment. Because children’s immune systems are still developing, these infections can be especially serious.
If a primary tooth becomes infected and needs to be extracted, your dentist may recommend inserting a space maintainer. This small device keeps the space open so other teeth don’t shift out of place, helping to prevent crowding and more complex orthodontic issues when permanent teeth come in.
Just as important is the lifelong habit you’re helping to build. When children learn to brush and floss early, they’re more likely to stick with those healthy habits into adulthood. Keeping baby teeth healthy also helps make dental visits easier and shows your child that there is nothing to be afraid of at the dentist.
Canton
1657 North Canton Center Road, Canton, MI 48187
frontdesk@cantonpediatricdentist.com
(734) 335-7270