6 Things Caregivers Should Know about Baby Teeth
As a family dentistry in Seaside, Dr. Scott Santos knows that when it comes to your baby’s dental health, every little detail counts. Today, we’re going to break down six things you should know about baby teeth—their importance, care and potential issues—all aimed at ensuring your child develops a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.
- The Journey Beings Around Six Months
It’s an exciting time when you first notice those first little white dots popping up in your little one’s mouth. These are the beginnings of baby teeth, which typically emerge in a specific sequence. First, you’ll see the two bottom front teeth (central incisors) come in, followed by the two upper front teeth (lateral incisors) and eventually the four molars in the back.
While this process usually takes place between ages six months and two years, remember each child’s development is unique.
- The Big Job of Little Teeth
If you are wondering why baby teeth are so important, you’re not alone. Not only do these tiny teeth play a big role in your child’s ability to chew, speak and smile, they also act as placeholders for permanent teeth, ensuring they don’t crowd each other as they emerge.
If a baby tooth is lost prematurely, the surrounding adult teeth might drift into the empty space, resulting in crooked or misaligned teeth. Sometimes, this can even cause the adult tooth to push against its neighbor, which could lead to further dental complications.
- Gaps Are Normal
Many parents worry about gaps between their child’s teeth, but rest assured, these are often a normal part of dental development. Gaps typically close on their own as your child grows. If gaps persist and concern you, consulting with Dr. Santos can provide peace of mind and help manage any necessary treatment.
- Beware of Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
Another common issue in young children is baby bottle tooth decay, which occurs when a baby’s teeth frequently encounter sugary liquids. This often happens when a child is put to bed with a bottle.
Remember, long-term exposure to sugar can significantly increase the risk of tooth decay, so it’s advisable to avoid letting your child fall asleep with a bottle of milk or juice.
- The Consequences of Premature Loss
If your child loses a baby tooth too early, it’s crucial to consult with a pediatric dentist. Without the guidance of baby teeth, permanent teeth may erupt in less-than-ideal positions. Unfortunately, there are no replacement teeth for prematurely lost baby teeth, making prevention and timely intervention key.
- Early Dental Visits Make All the Difference
Don’t wait until there’s an issue with your child’s teeth to visit Dr. Santos. Early and regular check-ups are vital. Our experienced team will monitor your child’s dental development and address any emerging concerns. Loose or missing teeth should always be evaluated by a dentist to ensure they fall out naturally and without complication.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Regular visits to our family dentist in Seaside will help ensure that your child’s teeth are developing correctly. If you’re concerned about any aspect of your child’s dental health, or wish to schedule an appointment, contact us today.