Primary Teeth, (Baby Teeth) are Important!

Why are Primary Teeth Important?

                           

Primary teeth serve as the bridge between no teeth and a full set of perminant teeth. Immediately after birth, an infant begins getting nutrition through nursing using a suckling technique, the muscles are not mature yet and the throat has not develop te completely. This suckling/swallowing method works well while muscles and structures develop and mature. At about 6 months, teeth begin erupting into the tiny jaws and the stronger muscles can begin processing bits of food. As the child continues to grow till about age two, the remaining primary teeth erupt into space. The tongue and jaws are growing stronger and larger and the child can now chew food efficiently and swallow it. The pri,are teeth will continue to work until they begin to be replaced by their perminant teeth at about age six. A child's ability to comfortably and efficiently eat, and speak, as well as feel socially acceptable are enhanced by a healthy complete set of primary teeth.

They Are Just Baby Teeth, Why The big Deal?

The primary teeth play a role in many areas of proper growth and development and need to be taken care of  for several reasons listed below:

• They help a child get maximum nutrition by chewing the food prior to swallowing
• Cavities (tooth decay, or caries)  can lead to painful and dangerous abscesses
• Premature loss of teeth can be disfiguring and lead to social issues for children
• Primary teeth are placeholders for the permanent teeth infections or early loss can lead to developmental problems and need for braces  and surgery later
• Proper hygiene and regular dental visits early in life leads to better life habits
• Painful
  
  
  emergency visits due to dental problems not addressed early lead many people to become dental phobics as adults with significant  fears and avoidance behaviors which can be devastating physically, socially, and emotionally.
• Speech patterns can be unaddressed affected by dental problems in children.

What Should Parents Do?

Parents should take their child to visit the dentist as soon as the first tooth arrives or by the child's first birthday. The child and parent can then establish a positives and healthy relationship very early on. In addition the dentist can help the parent develop goot diet and hygiene practices right away. Early visits allow the dentist to be alert for any growth and development issues early.

Dr. Neal answers all of your questions about Sealants at Crystal Lake Dental Associates.

Your comments are welcome