While most people know that baby teeth are temporary, many do not realize how important they are for the health and development of your child. Baby teeth act as placeholders for permanent teeth, and they also help your child learn to speak and chew properly. Additionally, baby teeth help your child’s jaw develop properly and can impact the alignment of permanent teeth.

For all of these reasons, it is important to take care of your child’s baby teeth and to see a pediatric dentist in Hoover regularly. You should also make sure to teach your child good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing, so that their teeth will be healthy and strong.

The functions of baby teeth

Most people are aware that baby teeth eventually fall out to be replaced by adult teeth. However, few people know the important role that baby teeth play in the proper development of the mouth and jaw. Although they are temporary, baby teeth are essential for future oral health.

Baby teeth are important for a number of reasons. They help the mouth develop properly, they aid in speech development, and they promote proper chewing and eating habits. Baby teeth also hold space in the jaw for adult teeth, which helps prevent crowding and misalignment of the teeth.

So, although baby teeth eventually fall out, they serve a vital purpose during early childhood development.

The link between baby teeth and adult teeth

You may have heard the old wives’ tale that if you take good care of your baby teeth, your adult teeth will be strong and healthy. But is there any truth to this claim?

It turns out that there is a link between baby teeth and adult teeth. Baby teeth act as placeholders for adult teeth, and if baby teeth are lost too early, it can affect the alignment of adult teeth. Additionally, baby teeth help to form the jawbone, which provides support for adult teeth. Therefore, our Hoover, AL pediatric dental team agrees it’s important to take care of baby teeth so that adult teeth can be healthy and strong.

Why is good oral hygiene important for baby teeth?

Good oral hygiene is important for baby teeth for several reasons. 

• First, baby teeth are important for the proper development of adult teeth. If baby teeth are not properly cared for, they can become infected and cause problems for the adult teeth as they come in. 
• Second, baby teeth are important for proper development of the jaw and for proper speech development. If baby teeth are not cared for, it can cause problems with the alignment of the adult teeth and with speech development. 
• Finally, baby teeth are important for aesthetics. Baby teeth that are not cared for can become discolored and can cause problems with the appearance of the child’s smile.

All of these reasons underscore the importance of taking care of baby teeth and teaching children good oral hygiene habits from an early age. Proper oral hygiene includes brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing once a day, and eating a balanced diet.

Baby teeth are just as important as adult teeth. They not only help guide adult teeth into their proper positions, but they also play an important role in a child’s development. If you have any concerns about your child’s teeth, please contact our pediatric dental office in Hoover, AL to schedule an appointment.