Can the Decay of Baby Teeth Affect Adult Teeth?

It is well known that baby teeth are important for chewing, speaking and developing a good bite. However, many parents don’t realize that baby teeth also play an important role in the development of adult teeth. In fact, baby tooth decay can actually affect adult teeth! This is why it is important to take your child to the dentist for regular checkups, so any problems with baby teeth can be addressed early on.

The Importance of Baby Teeth

While baby teeth eventually fall out, they are still important for several reasons. Baby teeth help children learn to speak clearly and develop a proper bite. They also hold space in the jaw for adult teeth, which helps prevent crowding later on. Finally, baby teeth serve as guides for adult teeth, helping them erupt in the correct position.

Can the Decay of Baby Teeth Affect Adult Teeth?

Yes, baby tooth decay can lead to problems with adult teeth. For example, if a baby tooth is lost too early due to decay, the adjacent teeth may tilt or drift into the empty space. This can cause crowding when the adult teeth come in. Additionally, baby tooth decay can damage the permanent teeth that are developing beneath the gums. Once these teeth are damaged, they cannot be repaired.

How to Care for Baby Teeth

Babies will begin getting their teeth around 6 months of age, and it is important to start caring for them right away. In fact, caring for baby teeth begins even before they come in! Before your child’s first tooth erupts, you should start cleaning their gums with a soft, wet cloth. As soon as teeth appear, you can begin brushing them. It is important to brush twice a day and to floss daily as soon as they have two touching teeth.

You should brush your baby’s teeth at least once a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and water. You can also use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste if your child is over 2 years old. It is also important to take your child to the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

One of the most common ways that baby teeth become decayed is from baby bottle tooth decay. This happens when a child falls asleep with a bottle of milk, juice or another sweetened drink. The sugar in the drink combines with bacteria in the mouth to form an acidic plaque that attacks the teeth. Baby bottle tooth decay can cause serious damage to baby teeth and can even lead to infection.

Signs of Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

The most common sign of baby bottle tooth decay is white or brown spots on the teeth. If you notice any spots on your child’s teeth, it is important to take them to the dentist right away. Baby bottle tooth decay can also cause pain, fever and irritability.

How to Prevent Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

The best way to prevent baby bottle tooth decay is to not give your child a bottle of milk, juice or any other sweetened drink at bedtime. If you must give your child a bottle at bedtime, be sure to fill it with water. You should also brush your child’s teeth after they have finished drinking. The ADA lists other prevention methods include:

• Try not to share saliva with the baby through common use of feeding spoons or licking pacifiers. After each feeding, wipe your child’s gums with a clean, damp gauze pad or washcloth.
• When your child’s teeth come in, brush them gently with a child-size toothbrush and a smear (or grain of rice sized amount) of fluoride toothpaste until the age of 3. 
• Brush the teeth with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste from the ages of 3 to 6.
• Supervise brushing until your child can be counted on to spit and not swallow toothpaste—usually not before he or she is 6 or 7.
• Place only formula, milk or breast milk in bottles. Avoid filling the bottle with liquids such as sugar water, juice or soft drinks.
• Infants should finish their bedtime and nap time bottles before going to bed.
• If your child uses a pacifier, provide one that is clean—don’t dip it in sugar or honey.
• Encourage your child to drink from a cup by his/her first birthday.
• Encourage healthy eating habits.

Cavities are one of the most common childhood diseases, but they are also one of the most preventable. By taking good care of your child’s teeth and visiting the dentist regularly, you can help keep their smile healthy and bright.

Make an Appointment with Li’l Sunshine Smiles

If you are concerned about your child’s oral health, or if you would like to schedule a checkup and cleaning, contact Li’l Sunshine Smiles today. We are always happy to answer any questions you may have about your child’s oral health!