A child’s primary teeth, sometimes called ‘baby teeth’ are as important as the permanent adult teeth. Primary teeth, which often begin to appear when children are about 6 months old, help them chew and speak. They also hold space in the jaws for permanent teeth that are developing under the gums. The front four teeth usually erupt first, with most children having a full set of 20 primary teeth by the age of 3 years. The primary teeth generally begin to shed, or fall out, at about 6 years of age. The first of 32 permanent teeth begin to appear about the same time. As the permanent molars appear, dental sealants may be recommended. Sealants form a thin barrier that helps protect the chewing surfaces from the effects of decay-causing bacteria.

Dentists have determined that caring for the primary teeth – and keeping them as long as possible – has a great effect on long-term oral health. Dentists now try to help children maintain their deciduous teeth as long as their mouths keep them in place. Keeping these baby teeth can specifically help prevent long-term problems with the adult teeth, including:

  • Misalignment due to missing baby teeth
  • Decay spreading into permanent teeth
  • Infection spreading into permanent teeth
  • Gum disease
  • Need for extensive, long-term orthodontic care
  • Many of these problems can be avoided if a child’s teeth are cared for from the very beginning

Just as important as professional attitudes toward children dentistry are those of the parents. The more aware mums and dads are of the importance of their child’s dental health, the more likely they are to be sure their child visits the dentist. They’re also more likely to care for their child’s teeth and avoid situations that could increase the likelihood of decay. This can be done by providing them with a well-balanced diet, limiting snacks, ensuring that they brush twice per day and floss once per day, and scheduling regular dental check ups for them.

These changes in attitude toward dentistry for kids and the resulting improvements in their oral care can and have helped children experience much less anxiety at the dentist and grow up with healthier teeth. As adults, they will also be more likely to visit the dentist, ensuring better lifetime dental health.

The Australian Dental Association recommends that a child be seen by a dentist as soon as his or her first tooth erupts but at least no later than their first birthday. Besides checking for tooth decay and other problems, a participating dentist can demonstrate how to clean the child’s teeth properly and how to evaluate any adverse habits such as thumb sucking.