The importance of baby teeth is often overlooked since they fall out anyway. This is a huge misconception that can cause issues for a child’s oral health and development. In this blog, your Sheridan, WY, dentist explains the significance of keeping baby teeth healthy, explores the preventive benefits of fluoride and sealants, and sheds light on the effectiveness of tooth-colored composite resin fillings in treating cavities.
The Importance of Preserving Baby Teeth
Those cute little pearly whites actually play important roles in your child’s dental and overall health. They protect your child’s ability to chew and digest food properly, hold spaces for their grown-up teeth, and preserve their self-esteem. If teeth are lost too early, the facial bones and other structures can be poorly developed leading to jaw issues and the need for orthodontics. Early tooth loss can also prevent proper speech and communication leading to lower self-esteem.
Preventing Decay
Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid erosion caused by bacteria and sugary foods. Regular use of fluoride toothpaste, drinking fluoridated water, and professional fluoride treatments can significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay in baby teeth.
In our office, we strongly promote the use of sealants. Thy are thin resin coatings that are easily applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. They create a protective barrier, preventing food particles and bacteria from accumulating in the deep grooves of these teeth. This preventive measure significantly reduces the risk of cavities in baby teeth and is easy and painless.
Treating Cavities with Tooth-Colored Fillings
When cavities do occur, it is vital to address them quickly. Composite resin fillings, also referred to as tooth-colored fillings, are an excellent option for treating cavities in baby teeth. They require minimal removal of the tooth structure to treat decay, so they preserve more healthy tooth material. They are bonded to the tooth surfaces, forming a strong and durable restoration. This helps strengthen and protect the treated tooth, reducing the risk of further damage.
Schedule Your Child’s Checkup Today!
Nurturing healthy baby teeth is essential for a child’s development and overall oral health. Reach out to Grinnell Street Dental in Sheridan, WY at 307-672-7567 to schedule your child’s next dental visit.
