Your child won’t keep his or her first teeth forever, but that doesn’t mean those tiny pearly whites don’t need conscientious care. Maintaining your child’s dental health now will provide health benefits well into adulthood, as baby teeth serve some extremely important functions.
For one thing, primary teeth serve as guides for the eruption of permanent teeth, holding the space into which these new teeth will erupt. The tops of the permanent teeth actually push against the roots of the baby teeth, causing them to resorb, or melt away. In this way, the adult teeth can take their proper place.
What’s more, your child’s primary teeth will be there for most of childhood, helping your child to bite, chew and speak. For the first six or so years, he or she will be relying on primary teeth exclusively to perform these important functions. Until around age 12, your child will have a mix of primary and permanent teeth. You will want to make sure those teeth stay healthy and are lost naturally when it’s time.
Getting your child started with a positive first experience with the dentist is very important, so we take extra time to make sure they are comfortable and that everything is good with their teeth and gums. We examine the development of their teeth, looks for signs of decay, crowding of teeth, gum disease and other child specific problems caused by thumb sucking, etc.
When your child comes to the office, they’ll find a children’s area specially created to be fun. You and your child will have everything explained in words your child can understand, and we’ll do everything we can to make the visit relaxed and enjoyable. You can be sure that Dr. Bhatt will take the time your child needs to be comfortable.
If you are looking for a comfortable experience for you and your child, give us a call for a consultation at 717-854-1803!