Why Are Baby Teeth Important?
Posted on July 2nd, 2021
Baby teeth, also known as primary teeth or deciduous teeth, are temporary. Children start to develop baby teeth early on in life, usually before age one, and most kids will have a total of twenty baby teeth by age three. These teeth are important for various reasons, though those reasons may not be clear considering the point of baby teeth is to lose them.
Baby teeth are essentially place holders for permanent teeth. Permanent teeth, also known as adult teeth or secondary teeth, slowly develop while a child’s jaw is also developing. Baby teeth are important for a number of reasons, such as chewing food and helping children to speak clearly. However, they also play a vital role in the development of adult teeth.
Baby teeth form a pathway for adult teeth to follow when they are finished growing and ready to emerge. Losing baby teeth too soon can cause overcrowding later on and other dental issues. If this occurs, a dentist may insert a space maintainer to preserve the pathway.
It is also important to have a child’s teeth examined regularly before adult teeth do start to emerge, because neglected baby teeth can develop cavities, be worn down by things like pacifiers and bottles, or suffer injury.
Early Age Dental Care – Pediatric Dentistry for Kids in Chicago, IL
Good oral health develops only if good oral hygiene habits are created. To ensure a child learns how to care for their teeth and gums, they should visit the dentist regularly, and practice dental care at home. Parents and guardians should teach their children how to properly brush their teeth twice a day, as well as how to floss and rinse with child-safe mouthwash.
These practices start with baby teeth, but will eventually protect adult teeth within a few years of a child’s growth.
Visit A Chicago Children’s Dentist – Chicago KiDDS
If you are looking for one of the best pediatric dentists in Chicago, look no further than Chicago KiDDS. Our top ranked pediatric dentists know precisely how to care for both baby teeth and adult teeth in all of our patients. Contact us today to set up an appointment.
