Why Baby Teeth Matter
In the span of our lifetimes, since primary teeth are temporary, it is easy to think that they are less important. It is also easy to overlook how long some of these teeth are present before their adult tooth replacement comes in. While front primary teeth fall out around 7 years old, baby molars do not fall out until closer to 12 (or later). This makes the baby teeth responsible for function through many phases of a child’s development. Core functions of primary teeth include helping to bite and chew food effectively, supporting proper speech development, and holding space in the jaw to promote proper eruption of adult teeth.
Timely care for primary teeth once breakdown or cavities appear is also important. Both because of their anatomy and size, it takes less time for a cavity to start causing pain and/or become an infection risk in a baby tooth than in an adult tooth. The presence of cavities, especially when left untreated, changes the oral environment. Not all bacteria cause cavities, but having cavities allows for more of the bad bacteria to establish themselves. Over time, they out-compete the good bacteria and can leave a lasting effect on the oral environment which can promote formation of additional cavities for years to come.
Pediatric oral health sets the stage for adult oral health. Cavities in childhood can pre-dispose to cavities in adulthood, and a growing number of studies link Early Childhood Caries to increased risk markers for adult health conditions including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and high cholesterol.
Our office is here to meet all stages of pediatric dental needs, but whenever possible, prevention is the most important foundation of oral health.
Protecting Against Early Childhood Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood condition in the United States, but it can be largely preventable. In children, frequent exposure to sugary liquids throughout the day can set the stage for tooth breakdown over time. Sugar exposures that may more readily come to mind can include milk, formula, or juices (especially when given at bedtime or naptime). Modern food supplies can hide sugar exposures in other areas too such as crackers or multivitamins which then get stuck in the deep grooves of back teeth and sit there much like liquid forms of sugar would.
A few simple habits go a long way. Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle containing anything other than water. Drinking mainly water throughout the day helps teeth to remain healthy. Do not eat or drink anything at night after brushing teeth. Early exposure to a brushing schedule helps to establish familiarity with the routine. And remember, the bacteria that cause cavities can be passed from parent to child, so taking care of your own oral health matters too.
When Should My Child First See a Dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have their first dental visit by the age of one. Establishing a relationship with a dental home at this age allows us to catch any concerns early, establish healthy habits from the beginning, and help your child build a positive relationship with dental care over time.
At your first visit, we will review your child’s health history, look at how their gums and teeth are developing, and talk through any questions you may have. We keep things simple and low pressure, especially when they are experiencing a dental office for the first time. Most first visits include a gentle cleaning and fluoride treatment.
If you have any questions about your child’s dental development or would like to schedule their first visit, we are always happy to help.