Healthy smiles start early. Baby teeth are the building blocks for healthy teeth for life. Not only are baby teeth needed to help children chew and speak properly, their roots help guide the proper growth and positioning of permanent (adult) teeth as they grow in.
Childhood cavities are the most common chronic childhood disease. Tooth decay affects six to 10 percent of all preschoolers. In fact, tooth decay is the most frequent condition suffered by children other than colds.
These statistics can change by starting good oral health habits in kids that will last a lifetime.
Learn more about oral health and children:
- What are baby teeth?
- Why do we have baby teeth?
- How long are we supposed to have baby teeth?
- Do you need to see a dentist when you have baby teeth?
- When are baby teeth formed?
- What is teething?
- Why do baby teeth fall out?
- What are the most common problems with baby teeth, and what can be done to avoid them?
- How do you care for a baby's mouth (before they have teeth)?
- How do you care for teeth in one to two year olds?
- How do you care for baby teeth in three to six year olds?
- How is 'kiddie' or children's toothpaste different from other toothpastes?
- Should children use non-fluoridated toothpaste?
- When can children brush their own teeth?
- Is there a list of dentists in Nova Scotia that treat young children?
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