tips for adjusting to dentures

The growth and development of your child's teeth and gums take time. As the baby teeth grow in, you may wonder if it's actually worth it to try and protect them from decay. After all, they will eventually be replaced.

Here is a bit of information about why it's important to keep your child's baby teeth cavity-free.

Baby Teeth Develop Cavities More Easily

The enamel on a permanent tooth is thicker than it is on a baby tooth. Additionally, the pulp, or interior tooth layer, is larger in a baby tooth. Consequently, not only do cavities develop more easily in a baby tooth, but a cavity that develops in your child's tooth may be particularly detrimental.

The pulp of the tooth is where the blood vessels and dental nerves are housed. If the pulp incurs significant damage, the entire tooth can die.

Why Do Kids Get Cavities?

Cavity development in a child's teeth occurs by the same process that it does in the teeth of an adult. Cavities are caused by the acids secreted by the microbes in the mouth. As these tiny organisms feed on sugars that are left in your child's oral cavity, they release acids that dissolve the minerals that make up the tooth enamel. The resulting holes are cavities.

Does a Child Really Need Their Baby Teeth?

The baby teeth are temporary, but that does not mean that they are unnecessary. They need to remain in place until they are shed naturally.

While a baby tooth is in position, it is holding a space for the permanent tooth that will replace it. If the baby tooth is lost before it should be, it can disrupt the presentation of the underlying permanent tooth and cause orthodontic issues.

The baby teeth also help the child form words properly. In addition, baby teeth are necessary for your child to properly chew a wide variety of foods. Children need proper nutritional support in order to grow and develop properly.

How Do You Help Your Child Avoid Cavities?

In addition to proper brushing and flossing, try to limit the number of sugars in their diet. Although sugar does not need to be banned entirely, its consumption should be moderated. Keep in mind that fruit juices contain a large amount of sugar. Additionally, starchy foods, such as white bread, become simple sugars in the mouth.

To learn more ways to protect your child's baby teeth, schedule a consultation with a pediatric dentist in your local area.