How Important Is the Condition of Your Child’s Baby Teeth?

Seeing your baby’s tiny teeth emerge can bring so much joy. Babies can begin getting their first teeth as early as six months of age. And as small as these teeth are, did you know they can also develop cavities?

You may be wondering if it’s important to look after your baby's teeth if they're bound to fall out anyway. The reality is, however, that baby teeth can affect the health of adult teeth and, consequently, a person’s oral health.

Let’s discuss reasons why it’s imperative to look after the condition of your child’s teeth.

The Importance of Baby Teeth: Why Little Smiles Need Attention

1. Avoiding Cavities

   Cavities are common among children. According to oral health statistics from 2007-2009, more than 50% of Canadian children ages 6-19 have or have had a cavity. And the average number of decayed teeth among children within these age groups is 2.5.

   If a tooth is severely decayed, it may need to be extracted, and this can be a frightening experience for young children.

   The extracted tooth will leave a gap behind, which can cause surrounding teeth to move from their position. This can result in the permanent teeth erupting in an unnatural position. And correcting the misalignment may require braces or an orthodontic procedure in the future.

2. Ensuring Chewing Abilities

   Baby teeth are important so your baby can comfortably chew and bite their food. They must be exposed to a variety of dietary textures and types in order for their developing bodies to receive the necessary nutrients. However, if a child has a decayed or sore tooth, chewing can be uncomfortable.

   They may choose certain types of food, such as those that require less chewing, which may prevent them from consuming a varied diet. Healthy teeth, on the other hand, may encourage children to sample a variety of foods, which can contribute to proper nutrition, growth, and development.

3. Encouraging Speech Abilities

   Speech is one of the most crucial developmental milestones for children. Seeing them pronounce syllables and phrases and begin to communicate is an exciting aspect of their growth. However, a child losing their primary teeth prematurely may interfere with their speech development.

   Certain sounds depend on the position of the tooth and tongue. If a child is missing teeth, they may be unable to produce some sounds correctly. In severe cases, speech therapy may be required to ensure that a child learns to speak normally.

   Other children may tease those with mumbled or slurred speech, which can have a negative effect on a child's confidence.

4. Preserving Space for the Adult Teeth

   Saving space for adult teeth is one of the most important roles of primary teeth. If a baby loses their teeth early, surrounding teeth can move and occupy the empty space. This can keep the permanent tooth from erupting where it should.

   There may no longer be enough space to accommodate them, which can result in crowding and crooked teeth. As teeth become misaligned, the upper and lower jaws will no longer meet correctly as well. This can impact a child's appearance and facial structure.

   Missing teeth can also cause shyness and prevent children from interacting with their peers.

5. Maintaining Good Oral Health

   Misaligned teeth are harder to clean because there are several nooks and crannies where food deposits can get stuck. They can be hard to remove with brushing or flossing. Furthermore, young children lack the dexterity necessary to effectively clean their mouths.

   Your guidance is crucial as they maintain good oral hygiene practices. Ignoring mouth care can lead to tartar buildup and cavities. Tooth decay can result in infections and, in some cases, even lead to pain and fever.

   Saying no to sweets isn't necessary. With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, your child can enjoy eating the food they love all while keeping their smile protected against damage.

Just Like Adults, Young Children Can Get Decay and Cavities Too

Show your child the value of good oral health and an excellent dental care routine. Make cavity prevention a household priority. Setting a positive example will go a long way toward encouraging them to look after their smile and carry those practices into adulthood.

If you're searching for dental services for children in Winnipeg, MB, we can help. We’ve been looking after children’s smiles in the Winnipeg community for over 30 years, and our dental team loves working with children and families.

Contact our dental team today to get started. We’re happy to answer your inquiries and help you plan a trip for your child or family.