Published on: 2025-06-22 | Written by: Dr. Nour Khaled Al-Hallaj, Pediatric Dentist
Some parents believe that baby teeth aren't important because they're temporary, but the truth is that their health plays a crucial role in your child’s development and the long-term health of their teeth. Dr. Nour Khaled El Hallaj, Pediatric Dentist, confirms that neglecting baby teeth can directly impact the health and position of permanent teeth.
Baby teeth serve several essential functions in a child’s development, such as:
Helping with chewing and digestion
Supporting proper speech development
Maintaining space for permanent teeth
Assisting the growth of the jaw and surrounding bones
Dr. Nour Khaled El Hallaj explains that any damage to baby teeth can negatively impact the permanent teeth that are developing beneath them.
Problem with Baby Teeth | Potential Impact on Permanent Teeth |
---|---|
Cavities and neglect | Infection can spread to underlying permanent teeth |
Early loss of baby teeth | Can lead to crowding or misalignment of new teeth |
Gum inflammation | May affect oral tissue and impede tooth eruption |
Tooth fractures | Weaken structural support for incoming teeth |
Yes, and Dr. Nour Khaled El Hallaj highlights that prevention begins with:
Brushing baby teeth daily with age-appropriate toothpaste and toothbrush
Visiting the dentist by the first birthday
Avoiding excessive sugar consumption
Using fluoride under professional supervision
Scheduling regular dental checkups every 6 months
Dr. Nour Khaled El Hallaj recommends that the first dental visit should be scheduled when the first tooth erupts or by the age of one, at the latest. This helps detect any early issues and educate parents on proper oral care.
Baby teeth may be temporary, but their function is vital and long-lasting. Taking care of them lays the foundation for a healthy, confident smile in the future. Don’t hesitate to schedule a visit with Dr. Nour Khaled El Hallaj to protect your child’s oral health from the very beginning.