4 Myths about Baby Teeth

Baby Teeth

All of us are concerned about our children’s health. But how many of us pay attention to our children’s oral health (teeth). Not many is the answer. Lot of misconceptions passed on over the ages is one of the reasons. Though there is accessibility to all the information we want these days to know about our teeth is easily available, we do not want to accept the facts.

Let’s understand few myths and facts about children’s teeth!

• Myth 1: Baby teeth are not important. They are just going to fall out anyway!

All 20 baby teeth are going to shed between 6years to 13years.

But before then, they serve many important functions in a child’s development. Not only do baby teeth act as placeholders for permanent adult teeth, they are also just as susceptible to the same decay and disease as permanent teeth. Not to mention, baby teeth issues can still cause your child pain and discomfort, which in and of itself is a good enough reason to take care of them.

• Myth 2: Babies have “soft” teeth which are more susceptible to cavities

In fact, the enamel of both baby teeth and permanent teeth is the hardest substance in the body. We do know that there are three things required to cause tooth decay: bacteria, a diet for the bacteria (sugar!), and a susceptible host (the tooth).

• Myth 3: It’s okay to soothe your child to sleep by putting them to bed with a bottle of milk.

Milk also has sugar which can ultimately cause tooth decay. Milk can turn into curd in the mouth which can fasten the tooth decay.

Child with this habit can develop “nursing bottle caries”. It is advisable to give milk at mealtime only so your child’s teeth don’t have prolonged exposure to the sugar.

• Myth 4: Breastfeeding the baby throughout the night is healthy.

Breast milk also contains sugar. If breastfed infants fall asleep with unswallowed milk in their mouth, they are also at risk for tooth decay. Bacteria in the mouth feed on the sugars, causing tooth decay.

Tips to care for your children’s precious baby teeth:

• Start brushing baby teeth when the first teeth starts coming through.
• Limit the sugary and acidic foods to mealtime
• Do not nurse your child to sleep with milk. Instead if required give water
• Fluoridated toothpaste in a tiny quantity is recommended for the children.
• Visit dentist at least every six months after your child’s first birthday to ensure healthy teeth.