In this blog, we have tried to clear misconceptions about a child’s first teeth which are also called primary teeth, milk teeth or baby teeth. Here are few myths about baby teeth that every parent should know:
Myth-1: Cavities in baby teeth do not matter:
If there is decay in the baby tooth, it can lead to infection and potentially damage to the unerupted permanent tooth. Therefore care of the baby tooth is needed to eliminate decay and discomfort to the permanent tooth.
Myth-2: There’s no need to brush baby teeth
Parents should begin brushing their teeth as soon as they appear. While it will help prevent tooth decay, at the same time it develops good oral care habits in your child.
Myth-3: Kids don’t need to see a dentist until they are older:
Many parents believe there is no need to see a dentist for their child until there is a problem in the tooth or until they grow older. Visiting a dentist early with your child will ensure that your child has a good impression of a dentist an early age. This will not stop your child to visit a dentist in the future because of dental phobia or fear of a dentist. After the first visit, your child develops a trusting relationship with the dentist. Parents should bring their children for a first dental visit as soon as the first tooth emerges or when a child is 1 year of age.
Myth-4: Baby teeth are not that important:
The front 4 baby teeth can last until 7 years of age, and the back teeth last until 13 years of age. Some people believe because these are not permanent teeth they are not that important. This belief can cause damage to permanent teeth. Baby teeth preserve space for permanent teeth, thereby they help permanent teeth to erupt at the correct position. For example, a baby’s teeth lost too early can lead to crawling of permanent teeth.
Please do not hesitate to contact Village Dental Practice for your unanswered questions about baby teeth. We would love to talk to you about any questions or concerns you might have!