How important are children teeth?

The common question that is frequently asked to the dentist is –Why to save or take care of milk teeth when eventually they are going to fall and get replaced by permanent teeth?  The answer to this is that baby teeth are just as important as the permanent teeth.

Children need their teeth to chew food.  So if their teeth are allowed to decay and rot all the way to the gum line and beyond, your child will not only suffer from pain, not be able to speak correctly, and suffer an inability to eat.   The effects of the neglect could be or an eating disorders.

Bad baby teeth means frequent visit to the dentists quite possibly at a stage when the only treatment options left are either to remove the grossly decayed teeth or root canals and crowns, again very costly.

Baby teeth help in normal growth of the jaw bone and give shape to the face. You need your teeth to smile and to speak clearly.  Picture your child with blackened stumps and bad breath, other children are teasing them at school, the teacher may not understand them which could lead to serious problems with their education.  All of which can and will affect your child’s social development and self esteem.

Baby teeth are essential to hold the spaces open so that the adult teeth can come into the correct position when they are finally developed enough to erupt.   If baby teeth are removed prematurely it could lead to permanent teeth coming in at inappropriate positions causing overcrowding, crooked teeth, chewing problems, facial asymmetries, and TMJ problems.

Be a role model for your kids. Your kids mimic what you do, so it's crucial that you set the tone so remember to brush and floss your teeth twice daily. And see your dentist twice a year for your annual exam and cleaning.

Remember a Healthy Smile is a Beautiful Smile.