Baby teeth save space for permanent teeth and guide their growth. If a child loses a baby tooth prematurely, the permanent one that comes in its place will not grow properly and will disrupt the placement and growth of other teeth. Something like a domino effect will happen.

In addition, the early loss of baby teeth affects the development of speech, i.e. it makes it difficult to pronounce the letters R, V, S and Z.

The biggest threat to baby teeth is caries.

It is caries that occurs in the earliest childhood, it is aggressive and very quickly destroys newly sprouted teeth. Bottle caries most often appears on all upper incisors, and then it spreads to the molars. It is caused by food rich in carbohydrates (sugars) that the child consumes through a bottle and inadequate oral hygiene.

Even one tooth is reason enough to visit the dentist. Baby teeth sprout approximately between the ages of six months and three years, and the first trip to the dentist is recommended within six months after the first tooth sprouts.

The dentist will examine the child's jaw to see if it is developing properly and instruct the parents in the oral hygiene of the child's oral cavity and baby teeth.

If the children are a bit older, the dentist will perform an examination through play and, as a rule, at the child's first visit, he will not do anything that could scare him. The most important thing is to dispel the fear of the dentist and prevent the development of caries in children.

After all the baby teeth have sprouted (around the age of seven), the dentist will close the fissures, which are fertile ground for the accumulation of bacteria and caries. These are furrows on the molars and premolars, which are more distinct on the teeth of some children. Fissure sealing is performed with a composite material, it is painless and quick, it belongs to the prevention and is one of the most common procedures in the field of pedodontics.

Another way to protect teeth from caries is by coating them with fluoride. It is used for baby and permanent teeth. The procedure is completely painless, and it strengthens teeth and helps children maintain dental hygiene. Of course, fluoridation is not a substitute for regular teeth brushing, but only a little help until healthy habits are acquired.