From the moment the first baby tooth appears, dental health becomes so important for overall heath and well-being. Here’s how you can guarantee your child has a happy, healthy smile for life.
Babies
Healthy baby teeth enable children to eat solid foods and are essential in the development of their jawbone, ensuring there is enough space for adult teeth to come through in the correct position. Baby teeth also help with sounding words correctly as children learn to speak.
Before they are three, brush twice a day with tap water only. This gets them into a good oral hygiene routine.
Toddlers
Children should start using fluoride toothpaste when they turn three
By this stage, most children have twenty primary (baby) teeth and you want to see spacing between the teeth.
Spacing between the upper and lower front teeth will help the larger adult teeth have the space they need. If the baby front teeth are crowded, more jaw growth will be needed for the adult front teeth. Spaces in between the back teeth lessen the chance for tooth decay to develop.
Children should have their first trip to the dentist at three years of age.
Tweens
Crowding is not uncommon. Because adult teeth are larger than baby teeth, jaw size and growth may not provide enough space.
Not all children who experience crowding will have dental issues as they become adults. However, if you still see crowding by 8-9 years, when all of the four upper and four lower adult incisor teeth have erupted, the crowding will probably not improve.
If you see crowding, you should bring your child in to see us for a consultation.
Tip: Here are 9 signs your child needs braces.
About us
Shire Dental’s goal is to create happy, healthy smiles for life. Our expert team help us achieve this goal through a commitment to ongoing professional development and patient education. To find out more or make an appointment, click here>
