Get The Facts On “Baby Teeth” And Early Tooth Care

Why do children lose their teeth when they are young? Is it important that they take care of their “baby teeth” just as they eventually will with their adult teeth?

Many creatures in the animal kingdom have multiple sets of teeth. The most obvious example is the shark: Certain types of sharks grow new sets of teeth throughout their entire lives. Since sharks can live between twenty and thirty years in the wild, that’s a lot of teeth!

Losing teeth is also common among primates in the wild. Many different kinds of apes lose their teeth. The reason is simple: They have a different diet that changes over time based upon their needs. In just the same way, the diet for a human being changes in early life.

A Quick Overview of Baby Teeth In Humans

Baby teeth, also known as “deciduous teeth,” appear early in life as we begin to eat solid food. A second set of larger, stronger teeth will soon follow, and these are the teeth we have throughout our lives.

Kids begin to lose their baby teeth around age six. The process continues for many years, and some kids may lose teeth faster than others. If the permanent teeth are growing normally, then the last baby teeth will usually be gone by thirteen or fourteen years of age.

When the baby teeth start to fall out and the permanent teeth emerge, it’s especially important for the child to see a dentist. A dentist can help ensure the permanent teeth are growing in a healthy way, and that they will be positioned correctly.

Is It Important For Kids To Take Care Of Baby Teeth?

Baby teeth will be all gone by the time the child enters his or her teens, but it’s still important to practice proper dental hygiene. Children need to get used to the routine of brushing their teeth on a daily basis.

Although a minor cavity in a baby tooth might not be too problematic, brushing the teeth helps maintain the health of the gums. Gum health is critical to people throughout their lives, so it’s a good idea to set healthy expectations.

Losing one’s “baby teeth” is an important part of growing up. If you have any concerns about a child’s teeth, get in contact with Stony Brook Family Dentistry right away. No matter where you are in Long Island, every member of your family is welcome here at Stony Brook!