Did you know that baby teeth are just as important as adult teeth? In fact, baby teeth play a crucial role in the development of a child’s smile. That’s why it’s so important to make sure your child sees a dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Our dentists at Park View Pediatric Dentistry in New York, NY can discuss with parents the importance of the baby teeth and what you can do to ensure your child has a healthy smile.
Why are baby teeth important?
Your baby’s teeth are critical in their smile development. The first teeth help to guide the eruption of permanent teeth, and they also help to establish good oral hygiene habits. Baby teeth are also necessary for chewing food properly, allowing them to properly digest what they eat.
If your baby loses a tooth, don’t worry! It will be replaced by a permanent tooth eventually. However, it is still important to take your child to the dentist for checkups so that any problems with the baby teeth can be detected and treated early.
To ensure healthy smile development, make sure you schedule regular dental appointments for your child every six months with the team at Park View Pediatric Dentistry. Additionally, practice good oral hygiene habits at home. Brush your child’s teeth twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste and teach them how to brush their teeth independently as they get older. Encourage flossing as soon as they are able to build a foundation of a healthy smile routine.
What if my child might need braces?
If our dental team suspects that your child might need braces, we will refer you to an orthodontist. Orthodontists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of dental and facial irregularities, such as crooked teeth or a misaligned jaw. Most children do not require braces until they are teenagers, but some may need them earlier. If your child needs braces, don’t worry! It’s a common process that helps improve their smile!
How do I find out more?
To learn more about baby teeth and smile development, give us a call at 212-879-6518. We would be happy to answer any questions you have!