Even though baby teeth fall out, they are just as important to care for as your child’s permanent ones. After all, baby teeth lay the groundwork for where your child’s permanent teeth will reside forever! Baby teeth have a thinner enamel than permanent teeth. It’s important to practice good oral health habits early, so problems with baby teeth do not cause issues for the permanent ones.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) stresses:
Some of the most common causes of childhood cavities are diet and oral home care. Unfortunately, the common American diet includes frequently eaten snacks or treats that are high in carbohydrates and sugars. These foods can make cavities grow. However, with proper dental hygiene, tooth decay is nearly 100 percent preventable. And since baby teeth are vulnerable to decay when they appear, children’s teeth should be brushed for two minutes two times a day. Floss as soon as teeth start touching.
The AAPD also emphasizes the importance of establishing a dental home for kids. It helps them become comfortable with their pediatric dentist and understand the benefits of good oral health at a young age. Kids should see the pediatric dentist before their 1st birthday for optimal dental health.
Should your child experience extensive decay on baby teeth, break or chip a tooth or need a solution to stop the spread of an oral infection, Dr. Baker Chambliss utilizes NuSmile zirconia esthetic crowns to restore teeth with a natural appearance. NuSmile crowns use no metal substructure, providing durability and easy placement.
Read more here: AAPD Baby Teeth and Pediatric Dentists
Medplex Pediatric Dentistry is proud to be the dentist for kids in the Greater Birmingham area including Hoover, Pelham, Alabaster, Calera, and Helena.