Some people believe that, since baby teeth fall out anyway, it’s not overly important to prevent decay until your child’s permanent teeth come in. However, loss of baby teeth can result in problems when the permanent teeth arrive. For this reason, dentists recommend keeping your child’s gums and baby teeth clean and healthy in order to prevent decay.

Long-Term Effects of Early Childhood Cavities

Decay in your child’s baby teeth, also known as deciduous teeth, can create long-term problems, including problems with the permanent teeth that can require expensive orthodontic treatment. If baby teeth suffer from serious decay, they might eventually need to be removed. If the baby teeth are removed, this can lead to problems with the alignment of the permanent teeth when they come in. If your child’s baby teeth remain healthy and intact, the permanent teeth are less likely to come in crooked or misaligned. [pullquote]Loss of baby teeth can result in problems when the permanent teeth arrive.[/pullquote]

Numerous cavities during childhood can also lead to dental anxiety. If your child has to have cavities filled or teeth extracted, he might begin to associate the family dentist with discomfort and stress. However, if your child only goes to the dentist for regular cleanings, fluoride treatments, and other issues such as having sealants placed, he will be much more willing to go to the dentist because former trips have been a pleasant experience.

Establishing Good Dental Hygiene Habits

Keeping your child’s teeth clean and healthy will also help establish good dental hygiene habits for your child. These habits will serve your child well as he grows older. If you help keep your child’s teeth clean when he is very young, he will become used to the routine of brushing and flossing and it will be easier to get him accustomed to keeping his own teeth clean as he gets old enough to do so.

If you’re not sure how to teach your child to brush and floss or perform other oral hygiene routines, ask your family dentist at the doctor Family Dentistry to provide recommendations. Your dentist can also help demonstrate proper technique and supply child-friendly toothbrushes and floss holders well-suited to your child’s smaller hands.