Dental Health Week Day 4

Why Do Baby Teeth Matter If They Fall Out Anyway?

It is easy to think that baby teeth are not as important because they eventually fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth. However, baby teeth play an important role in your child’s growth, development and oral health.

Baby teeth help children chew their food properly and are important for speech development. They also help maintain space in the jaws and guide the permanent teeth into their correct positions as your child grows.

Although baby teeth eventually fall out, some remain in the mouth until around 12 years of age. This means they need to stay healthy and functional for many years. If a baby tooth is lost too early due to tooth decay or infection, the surrounding teeth may move into the space. This can affect the space available for the permanent tooth developing underneath.

Baby teeth can develop cavities just like permanent teeth. Untreated tooth decay can lead to pain, difficulty eating, infection and, in some cases, the need for more extensive dental treatment. Children do not always tell you when something is wrong. Which is why regular dental check ups are important even when their teeth appear healthy.

Looking after baby teeth also helps establish healthy habits from an early age. Brushing twice a day with an age-appropriate amount of fluoride toothpaste, maintaining a balanced diet and attending regular dental visits can help children become comfortable with dental care and develop habits they can carry into adulthood.

Baby teeth may only be temporary, but the role they play is important. Keeping them healthy helps support your child’s eating, speech and dental development while creating a strong foundation for their permanent teeth.

Natasha, our oral health therapist wrote this post. To make an appointment with Natasha, or any of our other hygienists or dentists, you can phone our reception staff. Or visit our on line booking site.