Healthy baby teeth, otherwise known as primary teeth, are critical for the future development of healthy smiles in adults. Pediatric dentistry focuses on the prevention and treatment of various dental issues in children. Regular dental care will help children get into a routine of good oral health habits that will be beneficial for their entire lives.
The following are four important facts about baby teeth that parents should be aware of.
The first primary tooth will typically emerge around the time a baby is six months old, although it can occur any time between four months to one year of age. Parents should schedule their child's initial pediatric dentistry appointment within six months of the appearance of the first baby tooth, or by the time the child turns one year old. This appointment will typically involve a cleaning as well as a thorough examination, checking for cavities and other dental problems. Parents can also receive information and advice on habits like thumb sucking and pacifier use, as well as instructions on how to practice proper dental hygiene at home.
Pediatric dentistry appointments will usually be scheduled every six months after the initial visit.
While baby teeth are temporary, they are still a crucial part of a child's future oral health. Practicing proper dental hygiene, which includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing once per day, sets children up with good dental habits that will continue on to adulthood. Biannual appointments help to detect issues such as cavities that can be treated as soon as possible. Cavities, when left untreated, can lead to infections such as dental abscesses. Abscesses can infect the permanent teeth below the gums and cause damage.
Primary teeth are also important as they help children learn to chew and speak properly. They guide the jaws to grow normally and prepare them for permanent teeth to emerge later in life.
Primary teeth will often begin to naturally fall out around the age of 6, with the last tooth falling out around age 12. When a baby tooth is lost too early, it can cause dental problems. Baby teeth act as a spacer for permanent teeth; losing a primary tooth early may result in a loss of space and crowding of permanent teeth in the future.
A healthy diet goes a long way in protecting teeth. Avoiding sugary foods and drinks can help prevent cavities. A nutritious diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables will keep teeth healthy and strong.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Dentistry in Phoenix, AZ
It is imperative that baby teeth are properly cared for. Regular pediatric dentistry visits, as well as good oral hygiene and a nourishing diet, can help children have healthy smiles as adults.
Request an appointment or call Nett Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics at 623-759-7658 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.
Cavity treatment for kids is a chief concern among parents, and for a good reason. Cavities are common in children of all ages. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over half of the kids ages 6 to 8 have had at least one cavity in a primary tooth. The good news is…
Pediatric dentistry focuses on the oral problems that occur in children. Many dental issues in kids are similar to those that occur in adults. Without proper treatment, dental problems can progress to misaligned teeth and poor oral health. If you want to maintain your child’s dental health, here are the common dental issues that pediatric…
In their early years, your youngster is still a novice in brushing and flossing their teeth, meaning that cleaning your child's teeth in that period is your responsibility. Cleaning the teeth is a skill that the child should learn. Your role is to educate your youngster on how to keep their mouths clean and healthy.…
Dental sealants are one of the most powerful preventive care treatments for kids. Because children are especially vulnerable to cavities, parents need all the help they can get to help their kids fight tooth decay. Through this simple and pain-free procedure, your child can get powerful and long-lasting cavity protection on some of their most…
When it comes to your child's dental health, the first visit to a pediatric dentist is a significant milestone. It sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy oral hygiene habits and helps alleviate any anxiety your child may have about visiting the dentist. If you're searching for a "pediatric dentist near me," it's important…