Why Baby Teeth Matter: The Foundation of Lifelong Oral Health
At Convergent Dentistry , we believe that great oral health starts earlier than most people think. While baby teeth—also known as primary teeth—eventually fall out, their role in a child’s development is incredibly important. In fact, the health of baby teeth can directly impact a child’s overall well-being and the long-term health of their permanent teeth. It’s a common misconception that baby teeth aren’t that important because “they’re just going to fall out.” But the truth is, they serve as the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Let’s take a closer look at why caring for baby teeth is essential—and what parents can do to support their child’s oral health from the very beginning. The Essential Role of Baby Teeth Although baby teeth are temporary, their function is far from short-term. These teeth begin to appear around six months of age and remain in a child’s mouth until about age 12. During this time, they contribute significantly to several areas of development: 1. Spee...