Baby Teeth Are Important. Learn How to Keep Them Healthy

We lose baby teeth eventually, right? So why should so much effort be spent on keeping them healthy? Unhealthy baby teeth can lead to infection and later affect the placement of the adult teeth. Here are some reasons baby teeth need to be kept as healthy as possible.

Baby Teeth are Space Holders for Adult Teeth 

Baby teeth are crucial in holding space for the adult teeth to erupt. Adult teeth erupt by resorbing the baby tooth’s root, which guides the adult tooth into the correct position. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely due to a cavity, infection, extraction or trauma, the adult tooth may be susceptible to erupting out of position.

An adult tooth erupting out of position can also affect the surrounding teeth from erupting properly. This can lead to problems with alignment and space down the road. This issue may require orthodontic treatment later in life. While most people associate dental crowns with adult teeth, sometimes temporary dental crowns are used on baby teeth to preserve the baby tooth until the adult tooth comes into the mouth.

Baby Teeth Prevent Drifting of Other Baby Teeth 

When a baby tooth is lost prematurely, the adjacent baby teeth can drift into the open space, making it difficult for future adult teeth to erupt. When this occurs, orthodontic treatment may be required to establish proper chewing and speaking function. 

Baby Teeth Aid in Function and Aesthetic 

Baby teeth are essential for functions such as chewing, biting and speaking, and aesthetics such as smiling and confidence. A baby’s premature tooth or teeth loss can lead to issues with eating, communication and lack of confidence. 

How to Keep Baby Teeth Clean 

It is essential to keep baby teeth healthy and cavity-free until they are lost naturally when the adult teeth erupt. The first baby tooth erupts around 6-10 months old, and tooth brushing is essential from this time on. 

Make sure to help your child brush and floss their teeth until around 6-8. Begin using a fluoride toothpaste for your child around the age of 3, only the size of the tip of a pen, to help prevent cavities. You should start bringing your child to the dentist around three years old or earlier if there is a problem, concern or injury. Your child needs to have regular 6-month checkups to help keep their teeth and gums healthy. 

If you have any questions about keeping baby teeth healthy or why baby teeth are essential, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule an appointment.