What are milk teeth and how to brush them?

Did you know that your child's teeth start to develop during the second trimester of pregnancy? The set of 20 pearly whites remains completely grown in the jaw, ready to emerge at the appropriate moment.

Everything, from the first grin to the first crawl, is a milestone for both the parents and the child. And don't forget about the first tooth! As thrilling as it is to see your baby's first milky tooth emerge from his jaw, it is equally critical to begin required dental care right away.

With so many responsibilities, it's easy to neglect your child's dental care. A lesser-emphasized reality is that milk teeth, like permanent teeth, require the same level of care.

What Are Milk Teeth and Why Do They Matter?

Milk teeth, also known as baby teeth, are the first set of teeth that appear after roughly six months of age. They are white and smaller in size. When the youngster is around three years old, all of the baby teeth have fully emerged. Milk teeth begin to fall out at the age of 5 or 6, making room for permanent teeth.

According to the Montessori teachers, milk teeth are more important than one may think. Aside from conserving room for the future permanent set, milk teeth have an impact on the health of permanent teeth. Cavities in milk teeth may increase the incidence of tooth decay in adult teeth.

Milk teeth also give the face a shape and aid in the development of speaking in youngsters. If the infant's milk teeth are healthy, they will assist the newborn chew food properly, allowing the body to absorb nutrients more effectively. Many parents feel that because milk teeth have a shorter lifespan and would eventually fall out, they don't require much attention and care. What is true is that milk teeth require special care, and neglect may have far-reaching implications.

What if you do not brush your child's milk teeth daily?

Montessori La Canada Flintridge, CA teachers have observed that many youngsters either start brushing their teeth too late or do not clean their teeth regularly using the proper method. Whatever the cause, milk teeth are more prone to cavities than adult teeth due to their weaker enamel coating. Cavities between milk teeth spread quickly and can reach the adult teeth beneath. Children who do not clean their teeth regularly are prone to dental discomfort due to cavities, are unable to chew their food correctly, have foul breath, and may even experience pronunciation issues.

Important Dental Hygiene Tips for Your Child shared by Flintridge, CA doctors:

  • When considering oral hygiene for your child, it would be beneficial to be aware of the following facts:
  • Brushing teeth twice a day for two minutes is essential for youngsters.
  • Brushing with a pea-sized quantity of fluoride toothpaste should begin at the age of three.
  • Make sure you teach your child the proper brushing technique or brush them personally until the youngster can do it. This demonstration by our expert on how to wash your child's teeth correctly will be useful to you.
  • Keep an eye on your child's sugar consumption. Sugary and sweet meals and drinks, such as chocolates, gummy candies, juices, and so forth, can readily erode the enamel. It would be great if they brush their teeth after having any sugary food.