Most adults realize why it’s important that they receive regular dental cleanings—they need to avoid cavities and gum disease, have damaged teeth fixed, and maintain a clean mouth to preserve a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come. However some people wonder why children—who have temporary primary teeth—need to see a dentist every six months. Here’s some information from our Toluca Lake dentist office about the necessities of dental care for children…
Although children will lose all of their primary teeth and have them replaced with permanent teeth, they still need regular dental care to keep their primary teeth in tip-top shape. Primary teeth perform very important functions, including:
1. They serve as placeholders for permanent teeth. When permanent teeth break through, they need space to emerge. If permanent teeth don’t have sufficient room, they may come in crooked, misaligned, or cause uneven bite surfaces.
2. Primary teeth also promote healthy speech development. Children with a large number of missing primary teeth may develop lisps or other speech impediments. To help your children enunciate and speak confidently, help them learn to take care of their primary teeth!
Primary teeth also offer children the opportunity to learn to care for teeth properly. Children should develop good brushing and flossing habits while they have primary teeth, so that, when their permanent teeth come in, they’ll be able to care for their smiles appropriately.
Pediatric dental care shouldn’t be overlooked or ignored. Our Toluca Lake dentist office is here to help children and adults alike achieve the healthy, stunning smiles that they deserve. Do you want to learn more about preventative dental care? Give our office a call to schedule a consultation for yourself or your child! We can discuss the particularities of your dental care during your dental exam.