There are a lot of myths and misunderstandings surrounding the importance and care for primary or baby teeth. Very often we encounter parents who did not think it is necessary for their loved little ones to have a dental check-up until they get their adult teeth, which is usually at least 6 years of age, or they think that diseases in primary dentition do not need to be treated because they will 'fall out' anyway. These two big misconceptions can not be further from the truth.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommend an oral/dental examination of a child latest by age 1, to detect any early issues and to ease your child into the routine of having their mouths checked by the dentist regularly.
Decay in primary teeth can worsen very quickly, and unlike adult teeth if baby teeth begins to hurt the child, very often they can not be saved and will require extraction. Loss of baby teeth can cause shifting of the remaining teeth and cause adult teeth to grow in crooked later in life, resulting in misalignment that will require expensive orthodontic treatments. Missing teeth can also sometimes cause speech issues. Rotten baby teeth, if left untreated, can result in dental abscess which may cause malformation of adult teeth and facial infections.
Children also respond to dental pain differently than adults. Very often, they may not verbalize if they have a toothache but may rather avoid eating and brushing, therefore resulting in malnourishment and other health issues.
Like many other diseases, tooth cavities may or may not cause pain but the lack of pain does not mean it can be left untreated. The dentists at Metro Dental Care welcome you to bring in your children of all ages for an examination to make sure they get the necessary help to keep their pearly whites for a life time.
National Children's Dental Health Month
