Charleston area Dentist answers, why are primary teeth so important?

A lifetime of good oral health starts with the primary teeth. The primary teeth typically begin erupting through the gum line during the first year of life. By the age of three, most children have all 20 of their primary teeth. These teeth will eventually fall out over time and they will be replaced with a set of adult teeth. Because of this, many parents ask, why are primary teeth so important?

Primary teeth are important for several reasons. First, they help children speak clearly. Many sounds are made using the teeth, and without them, children may be difficult to understand. When the teeth form, children are able to produce sounds more effectively and therefore become better communicators with parents, siblings, and those around them. Second, primary teeth allow children to enjoy solid foods. Solid foods cannot be digested without proper chewing, which is facilitated by the primary teeth once they have erupted. Third, primary teeth hold spaces in the jaw for the permanent teeth. These grow under the gums and come into place once primary teeth fall out. Most primary teeth will fall out in the order in which they came in, though this is not always the case.

Setting the foundation for good oral health habits starts early in life. Parents are encouraged to bring their children to the dentist before their first birthday, and continue to bring them back for recall visits at least twice a year. Maintaining a positive connection with the dentist and the dental environment is the best way to reduce apprehension about dental care. Children who see their dentist regularly are much less likely to develop fears of dental visits.

Dr. Andrew Greenberg and the team of Mouth Carolina Dentistry, PA welcome patients of all ages to the practice and encourage parents to bring their children in for regular appointments.