There is a common misconception that baby teeth or ‘milk teeth’ are not as important as adult teeth due to the fact that they fall out anyway. It is understandable to have this mindset however we will briefly discuss the importance of baby teeth.
So when do baby teeth first come through? Below is a picture of the ages in which the baby teeth poke through the gums.
As a child grows older they will eventually lose their baby teeth at different times.
The bicuspids are the teeth that push the baby molars out and as per the diagram they only come through at around the age of 10 – 12 years. Therefore baby molars have to stay in the mouth for about 8 – 10yrs after they have come through which is quite some time.
So why are baby teeth important?
- Important for your child’s health and development
- Speech
- Nutrition
- Hold space for adult teeth to come through – if lost early can cause crowding and make teeth crooked (orthodontic problems)
- Self-esteem and self confidence
- Smiling!
- Cleaning Your Child’s Teeth
Begin cleaning your baby’s mouth during the first few days after birth by wiping the gums with a clean, moist gauze pad or washcloth. As soon as teeth appear, decay can occur.
Until you’re comfortable that your child can brush on his or her own (usually around the age of 8), continue to brush your child’s teeth twice a day with a child-size toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
