All About Your Baby’s Teeth

Most children will have 20 primary (baby) teeth. To keep their smile healthy, it’s best to plan their first dental checkup once their first tooth erupts or no later than their first birthday. Although these teeth are temporary and will eventually be replaced by permanent teeth, they play a crucial role in your child's overall oral development, speech, and physical well-being.

Baby teeth serve several important functions that contribute to your child's overall health and development:

• Chewing and Digestion: Baby teeth enable proper chewing of food, which is essential for digestion and nutrient absorption. Well-chewed food is easier for the stomach to process, promoting optimal nutrient intake.
• Speech Development: These tiny teeth aid in the development of clear speech patterns. They assist in forming sounds and words, allowing children to communicate effectively.
• Maintaining Space: Baby teeth serve as placeholders and guides for the permanent teeth that will eventually replace them. They help guide the proper alignment of permanent teeth as they grow in, reducing the likelihood of orthodontic issues in the future.
• Self-Esteem and Confidence: A healthy smile can significantly impact a child's self-esteem and confidence. Baby teeth play a role in your child's ability to interact with others, smile, and express themselves positively.

Proper care for baby teeth is essential for setting the stage for a lifetime of oral health. Establishing good oral hygiene habits early on can prevent dental issues and promote a healthy transition to permanent teeth.

Our Allentown pediatric dentist recommends brushing your child's teeth as soon as they come in, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. As your child grows, encourage them to brush independently while supervising their technique and following up behind them.

If your child's teeth touch side by side, introduce flossing as part of their daily home care routine.

Schedule your child's first dental visit by their first birthday. Regular checkups allow Dr. Lesavoy to monitor their oral development, provide preventive care as needed, and address any growth concerns while they’re easier to correct.

As your child grows, their baby teeth will gradually fall out to make way for permanent teeth. This transition usually begins around the age of 6, give or take, and continues through middle school. While baby teeth are important, it's equally essential to properly care for incoming permanent teeth. Dr. Bret Lesavoy and our dedicated team are here to guide your child through every stage of their dental journey, ensuring a seamless transition to a healthy adult smile.