ARE BABY TEETH IMPORTANT?
Yes they are! Baby teeth are important for chewing and speaking, and help to guide the adult teeth into good alignment.
WHAT IS THE MOST COMMON PROBLEM IN BABY TEETH?
Tooth decay is the most common problem amongst preschoolers in Singapore. In fact, one in every two children will suffer from dental cavities before they start primary school.
I HEARD SOME KIDS AS YOUNG AS 2 YEARS HAVE TO UNDERGO FILLINGS!
Unfortunately, that is true. Dental decay can set in as soon as the first tooth erupts.
DON’T BABY TEETH FALL OUT BY THE TIME A CHILD IS 7 YEARS OLD? IS THERE REALLY A NEED TO FIX BABY TOOTH DECAY?
While the front baby teeth (the incisors) may fall out earlier, the back teeth – or the molars – only start to loosen between the ages of 10 and 12 years. Untreated tooth decay worsens over time and can cause unpleasant toothaches and infections. It is painful to chew with these teeth and this affects kids’ appetites and overall nutritional intake.
Tooth decay is contagious. Permanent teeth that emerge into a mouth full of baby tooth decay will often fall victim to decay too.
HOW CAN PARENTS PROTECT THEIR KIDS FROM TOOTH DECAY?
Do not put your child to sleep with a bottle containing milk or any other liquid besides water. Falling asleep with a film of milk sugars on the teeth is one of the biggest reasons for the rise in dental cavities in preschoolers. Rinsing or having a sip of water after does not count!
Brushing is the only way to effectively remove milk film.
ANY OTHER DENTAL TIPS?
Establish a good dental routine and dental habits from an early age, including toothbrushing at least twice a day with an age-appropriate toothpaste.
WHEN SHOULD I TAKE MY CHILD FOR THE FIRST DENTAL CHECK-UP AND WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?
A child should have his first dental check-up as soon as the first tooth erupts or before his first birthday. However, if parents have any concerns, they are always welcome to schedule a visit to a paediatric dentist any time before.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT ON MY CHILD’S FIRST DENTAL VISIT?
Examining your child’s teeth and gums is just one part of the visit. Your paediatric dentist will also discuss your child’s daily dental routine, including any dietary practices that may put your child at high risk of developing dental problems. Recommendations will be tailored specifically to your child’s needs.