Why Are Primary Teeth Important?
Why Are Primary Teeth Important?
Descanso Smiles: Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
Peter S. Suh, DMD, Inc.
Primary teeth—often called baby teeth or deciduous teeth—begin forming beneath the gums during the second trimester of pregnancy, and typically begin to emerge around 6 to 12 months of age. By the time most children reach preschool age, they have a complete set of 20 primary teeth, including molars that help them chew and smile confidently.
A common misconception is that primary teeth don’t matter because they eventually fall out. In truth, primary teeth play a vital role in a child’s growth and development. That’s why the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommend that children have their first dental visit by age one—or within six months of the first tooth appearing.
What Do Primary Teeth Do?
Though the eruption of baby teeth can be uncomfortable—often soothed by chewing rings, wet gauze, or clean fingers—these little teeth play a big role in your child’s health and development.
Here’s why they matter:
1. Speech Development
Primary teeth help guide the tongue into proper positions when forming words. Well-aligned baby teeth support clear pronunciation and are essential for cognitive, emotional, and social development during the early years.
2. Eating & Nutrition
Chewing isn’t just about eating—it’s about learning how to process food for a healthy body. Children with damaged or missing primary teeth may have difficulty chewing and can be at higher risk for nutritional deficiencies. Healthy teeth make eating more comfortable and help kids maintain a balanced diet.
3. Self-Confidence & Social Comfort
Even young children notice their own smiles—and those of others. Healthy, clean teeth support fresh breath and confident smiles. Positive oral habits established early can boost social development and self-esteem.
4. Spacing for Permanent Teeth
One of the most important roles of baby teeth is to hold space for future permanent teeth. If a primary tooth is lost too early, nearby teeth can drift out of place and lead to crowding or misalignment. In these cases, pediatric dentists often recommend space maintainers to protect your child’s future smile.
5. Foundation for Lifelong Oral Health
Untreated decay in baby teeth can lead to childhood periodontal disease, where bacteria damage the gums and bone—potentially affecting the permanent teeth developing underneath. A strong daily oral care routine, along with early dental checkups, helps prevent future problems and supports healthy tooth eruption.
The Bottom Line
Primary teeth are more than just a temporary set—they are critical to your child’s health, growth, and development. At Descanso Smiles, we’re here to guide your family through each stage, from teething to permanent teeth, with gentle, compassionate care.
With Descanso Smiles: Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics(818-790-5959). Together, we’ll help build healthy habits and beautiful smiles that last a lifetime!
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