You may have questions about your child’s teeth that a pediatric dentist can answer. For example, you might be wondering why you should take your child to a pediatric dentist. You may also wonder why baby teeth are so important. Read on to learn the answers to your dental questions.
Both a general and pediatric dentist go to dental school for several years. However, after dental school, a pediatric dentist will receive two to three years of additional training. This training helps the pediatric dentist learn how to identify issues that relate to children. Babies, preschoolers, preteens and teens all need a different approach when it comes to oral health. A pediatric dentist also has more experience than a general dentist in caring for children’s teeth.
The enamel on baby teeth is not as strong as on adult teeth. This means that children are more prone to getting cavities. If these cavities are not treated, children can have painful infections that interfere with daily life. One study found that about 43% of children ages two to 19 had cavities. These cavities often resulted from poor oral hygiene and too many sugary foods. The baby teeth have several other functions as well, including:
About half of children experience teeth grinding during the night. The majority of these children outgrow the habit. This will usually happen when more adult teeth grow in the mouth. Because baby teeth will fall out, bruxism in young children is usually not harmful. A pediatric dentist can keep an eye on the teeth of a child who bruxes. The pediatric dentist may recommend a mouthguard.
A child’s primary teeth are whiter than an adult’s teeth. Baby teeth are also known as “milk teeth” because of the white color. As adult teeth replace the baby teeth, the adult teeth can look yellow by comparison. However, this is only an illusion. When all the adult teeth have come in, the teeth will most likely have a more natural appearance.
As the adult teeth come in, a parent may notice ridges on the biting portion of the front teeth. These are known as developmental ridges, or mamelons. The ridges help the teeth break through the gum. As the child uses these teeth normally, the ridges will gradually wear down. This process takes more time for some children than others.
It is important to know more about your child’s baby and adult teeth. This can help you better recognize if your child is experiencing any issues. For example, bruxing is normal now but can be a problem later. On the other hand, cavities in the baby teeth should be treated quickly. Visiting a pediatric dentist can help any other issues be addressed.
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