The rate of caries in permanent teeth has been on the decline for years. Improvements in dental technology, increased access to fluoride, and parents becoming better informed on caring for children's teeth all help maintain the longevity of permanent teeth. Unfortunately, too many parents underestimate the importance of baby teeth. Primary teeth hold the space in the jaw for the permanent teeth.
Primary teeth are necessary for chewing, speaking and appearance to boost a child's self-esteem.
Decay in primary teeth can damage the erupting permanent teeth, increases the risk of decay in permanent teeth, causes pain and unnecessary suffering, and can be associated with general health problems in some children. Dr. Tinanoff, et al. noted behaviors occurring at crucial periods of primary tooth development as those most likely to cause decay. Inappropriate feeding practices, bacterial infection and inadequate amounts of fluoride can increase the likelihood that young children will experience decay in their primary teeth. Early intervention may be the best way to avoid Early Childhood Caries. Children should be seen by a pediatric dentist when their first tooth appears or no later than their first birthday.