Your child’s teeth begin to grow before they are born and will continue to develop throughout their life. While these teeth will not be visible until your little one is at least six months old, you can expect them to have a full set of baby teeth by the time they are three. Only a few years later, your child’s baby teeth will start falling out to make room for the adult teeth. Here’s what you should know about this process when caring for your kid’s smile.
Tooth Decay Is Incredibly Common Among Children
The market is saturated with sugary snacks advertised to kids, which helps make tooth decay the most common damaging dental issue among children. The CDC reports that more than 42% of kids between the ages of two and eleven will develop a cavity, making these dental infections five times more common than asthma and twenty times more common than diabetes among children. If left untreated, tooth decay will only get worse, eventually destroying the tooth and leaving lasting effects on your child’s overall health.
Cavities Can Be Prevented
While cavities are unfortunately common, they are certainly not inevitable. Dental science has developed a variety of techniques that can prevent tooth decay or even reverse it in its early stages. Practicing excellent oral hygiene at home is the best way to prevent cavities, so teaching your child early to brush and floss properly is a must. Fluoride treatments are known to fight cavities by strengthening developing teeth and reinforcing their enamel as they age.
Children Should Start Seeing a Dentist by Their First Year
Equally important as brushing and flossing to your child’s dental health is seeing a dentist regularly. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child’s first dental appointment by their first birthday. This will allow the dentist to monitor the state of your kid’s teeth and gums, correct any problems in their early stages, and advise you on ways to improve their oral care. It will also get your child used to the dental cleaning process, which can prevent dental anxiety from developing later.
While your kid’s first set of teeth will eventually fall out, they help guide the developing adult teeth into their proper positions until then, and losing them early can have negative consequences in the long run. By taking proper care of your child’s baby teeth, you can help them enjoy a beautiful smile for life.
About the Author
Dr. Matt Strumpf earned his dental degree from Midwestern University and completed his pediatric specialty training at the University of Illinois Chicago. He is proud to be a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and has attended the American Laser Study Club Symposium. His office in Inver Grove Heights, MN offers pediatric general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To schedule your child’s next dental visit, contact his office online or dial (651) 450-6111.