The question "why treat baby teeth if they will fall out" sounds logical. But baby teeth affect the jaws, speech, and chewing. Below — when they erupt, how the bite changes, why cavities in them progress quickly, and when to take a child to the dentist.
When baby teeth erupt
Baby, or primary, deciduous teeth are the first set of teeth in diphyodont mammals, including humans. In humans, they erupt after birth in a certain sequence: teeth of the same name on each half of the jaw appear at the same time, and the lower ones usually appear before the upper ones. The approximate timing is as follows:
- central incisors — 6–12 months;
- lateral incisors — 9–16 months;
- first molars — 13–19 months;
- canines — 16–23 months;
- second molars — 22–33 months.
Two periods of the primary dentition
The primary dentition goes through two periods. The first — from formation to 3.5 years: the teeth stand close together, without gaps, wear is almost imperceptible, and the bite is orthognathic due to the slower growth of the lower jaw. The second — from 3.5 to 6 years: the jaws grow, physiological spaces (diastemas and tremas) appear between the teeth, the bite shifts from orthognathic to straight, and wear becomes noticeable.
Why baby teeth matter even though they will fall out
Baby teeth matter in the development of the oral cavity. They maintain the length of the dental arch. The bone and permanent teeth develop from the same tooth germs as the baby teeth. The roots of baby teeth set the direction of the path for the eruption of permanent teeth. The formation of the jaw bones and the work of the chewing muscles depend on baby teeth: they maintain the correct space for the successor teeth. Baby teeth are important for the development of a child's speech, for the smile, and for chewing food.
Children whose baby teeth have been removed (usually due to cavities or trauma) can still eat and chew to some extent.
Cavities in baby teeth: why they progress quickly
Dental caries, also known as tooth decay and cavities, is one of the most common chronic diseases in children worldwide. It is a bacterial infection that demineralizes and destroys tooth tissue. In baby teeth, extensive caries is the most common dental problem. Such a lesion covers at least half of the tooth and may involve the pulp. Cavities in baby teeth progress quickly and often reach the pulp.
When to take a child to the dentist
The first visit is an examination, not immediate treatment. The dentist looks at the teeth and gums, asks what is bothering the child, and explains what they see. For parents, a reason to show the child is a spot on a tooth, pain during chewing, or swollen gums. These signs can occur with cavities, which destroy tooth tissue and may involve the pulp. If the child will not open their mouth, that is not a reason to postpone the examination: the dentist needs to see what is going on with the teeth.
At the examination, the history matters: when the spot appeared, whether the tooth hurts, whether the gums have swollen. The dentist looks not only at one tooth but at the entire dental arch and gums. After the examination, they say what they see and what to do next.
Do not wait for the baby tooth to fall out on its own: cavities in baby teeth progress quickly. If there is already a visible lesion on the tooth, it may cover at least half of the tooth. The examination shows whether the pulp is involved and what to do next.
If a child's gum swelling spreads to the face or neck, or there is difficulty breathing or swallowing — call 103 or 112.
What to say when calling 103 or 112
The dispatcher will ask for the address — street, building, or landmark — what happened, and a phone number to call back. They will say when they have all the necessary information. The dispatcher will also tell you approximately how long to wait and may give instructions on what to do while help is on the way. If you are told there will be a call back, someone must be nearby to pick up the phone. Calling does not always mean that a team will come. If the child takes medication, name it to the dispatcher and mention any allergies if you know them. If the child's condition changes or you change location, call again.
This material is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation: if in doubt — show the child to a dentist.
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This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer