What kind of impact do your child’s baby teeth have on their current and future oral health? Many parents believe that while good oral hygiene is important for young children, it’s not always necessary because their primary teeth will eventually fall out. The truth is that taking care of your little one’s smile early on can make a significant difference in their oral and facial development as well as their ability to eat and speak. Read on to learn four unique reasons why your child’s dentist emphasizes the importance of healthy baby teeth.
There is a Greater Chance of Them Developing Healthy Permanent Teeth
The health and well-being of your little’s one smile early on can determine what kind of permanent teeth erupt. If they suffer from frequent cavities, this problem can continue once their adult pearly whites move into place. However, if regular brushing and flossing at home as well as six-month checkups and cleanings are maintained, there is a greater chance that their smile will continue to remain healthy.
They’ll Be Set Up for Academic Success
Your child will continue to lose their baby teeth until they reach the age of about 12 or 13. This means they will be spending a lot of their time at school. It is believed that children with cavities and other common oral health problems miss countless hours of classroom instruction because of dental visits that require restorative treatment.
By paying careful attention to their oral health, they will be more likely to succeed academically because of the amount of time they’ll spend learning instead of worrying about their teeth.
Your Child Will Be Able to Eat Nutritious Foods
Once primary teeth erupt, the opportunities to incorporate other foods increase. If tooth decay or gum disease creates soreness or discomfort, they may be less likely to eat certain foods, which can negatively affect their oral and overall health. However, if these chompers are in good shape, they’ll be able to easily chew various fruits and vegetables, allowing for a nutrient-rich diet and good digestion.
They Will Enjoy a Straighter Smile
Primary teeth that are treated for crookedness, misalignment, overcrowding, or gaps are more likely to welcome permanent pearly whites that are straighter and in proper alignment. When your child loses a baby tooth, it’s important to be aware of the typical timeframe, especially if one falls out too early. This will require a space maintainer to be put into place so that nearby healthy teeth do not begin to shift. Being mindful of this possibility can protect your child’s smile from the potential need for orthodontics in the future. If they need Phase 1 orthodontics, it’s best to seek treatment right away as opposed to waiting until their permanent teeth erupt.
Taking proper care of your child’s teeth will give them the best chance to enjoy life with a healthier smile as they transition to each new phase in their oral healthcare journey.
About the Authors
Dr. Justin Chan and Dr. Sage Yoo are board-certified pediatric dentists. They’re also fathers who are here to help young smiles grow healthy and strong. Offering preventive services and helpful techniques to improve good oral health and hygiene at home, they give children and parents what they need to develop proper habits that safeguard against cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, and more. If you want to learn what you can do to keep your little one’s primary teeth in the best possible shape, visit our website or call (469) 294-8217.