Baby teeth start to erupt through the gums between the ages of 6 months to one years old. The timing of eruption generally varies but all 20 primary teeth (baby teeth) usually erupt by the age of three. Baby teeth are important even though they fall out and are replaced with permanent teeth. It is very important to maintain good health for baby teeth.
Baby teeth are very important for many reasons:
Proper chewing and eating
Providing space for the permanent teeth and guiding them into the correct position
Stimulates normal development of the facial bones and muscles
The development of normal speech
Build self-esteem by providing a beautiful smile
No distraction in daily life due to dental pain
As soon as teeth appear in the mouth, decay can start. It happens when a baby's teeth are in contact with liquids containing sugar for long periods. Children with baby teeth can suffer from cavities, which can further lead to other dental infections. Primary tooth decay is very infectious, serious, and can lead to abscess or infections. This proves harmful to children as their immune system doesn't develop fully at a young age.
Here are some tips to protect your child's teeth from decay:
Brush and floss regularly: American Dental Association recommends that your brush your child's teeth until she/he is at least 6 years. Use floss as soon as the child has two teeth that touch.
Drink more water: water does not cause cavity and aids in washing away any food particles that may be stuck to teeth.
Rinse after meal help to remove food debris from teeth. Swish clean water in their mouth for 30 second and then spit it out. Rinsing helps preventing acid attacks and enamel erosion caused by decay-causing bacteria.
Avoid sugary foods and drinks: sweet treats and sugary drinks contribute to tooth decay. Reducing these foods will prevent and lower the chance of tooth decay.
Make a dental appointment for your child.
First dental visit:
As soon as your baby's first tooth appears, schedule a first dental visit, but no later than the first birthday. Treat the first visit as a “well baby” check up. The dentist can check for decay and other problems. It’s best to meet the dentist when your child is having no dental problems – don’t wait until an emergency comes up.
For more information about your child's health care, please contact our office at 626-461-5659.
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