When your child’s first baby tooth comes out, it can be an exciting experience for both of you. They get a visit from the tooth fairy and you get the peace of mind knowing they’re on track to get their permanent teeth. As their first baby teeth come out, you’ll still need to make sure their teeth are being properly taken care of.
Even though baby teeth will eventually fall out, your child should still be practicing regular oral habits. There are many consequences to losing baby teeth to early, so keep that in mind next time your child tries to skip brushing.
The Purpose of Baby Teeth
When baby teeth come, your child will be able to start eating tougher foods. Their teeth are also meant to act as placeholders until their adult teeth come in. This is exactly why they need to be cared for as much as adult teeth. If they lose their baby teeth too early, it will cause multiple negative side effects in their oral development.
For example, if a baby tooth gets knocked out in an accident or becomes so decayed it needs to be removed, the rest of their teeth will start to crowd the empty spot where the tooth used to be. This causes their smile to become crooked and their bite to become misaligned. The cost of regular dental care is much less than orthodontic treatment to fix a corrected bite or crooked smile, so it’s worth the extra effort to confirm their dental habits are in check.
The Importance of Regular Dental Visits
Whether you’re an adult or child, you need to visit the dentist at least twice a year to ensure there are no complications in the mouth. During the exam, your dentist will observe your child’s bite and make sure no cavities are present in their baby teeth. They may also recommend dental sealants or fluoride treatment for added protection.
To prevent cavities, keep as little sugar in your child’s diet as possible. Never let them fall asleep while nursing or with juice or milk in their bottle. The key is to watch their sugar intake at all costs.
Practicing Proper Oral Hygiene for Kids
Even when there’s no teeth present, you’ll want to make sure your child gets properly acquainted with the idea of cleaning their mouth daily. Before your child’s baby teeth erupt, use a soft, wet washcloth or gauze to wipe down their gums. Purchase a toothbrush specifically designed for babies. These will have much smaller heads, softer bristles, and even silicone nubs for them to chew on.
As your child’s baby teeth appear, they should be brushing twice a day and flossing just like you do. Try doing this with them so you can supervise and so they can enjoy the process more. Getting these habits solidified early will make it easier for them to retain as they reach adolescence.
Don’t put off your visiting your dentist in Ann Arbor. Schedule an appointment today to make sure your child’s oral development is on track.
About the Author
Dr. Dina H. Cocco earned her baccalaureate from Central Michigan University and her dental degree from the University of Michigan. She’s also continued her dental education to bring her patients the latest developments and best possible dental care, especially for children. To learn more about her practice, contact her at (734) 668-8636 or visit her website.