Eventually, baby teeth will start to erupt, and the process of teething can certainly be a painful one!
Congratulations on your new bundle of joy! Your baby is one of the most precious things in the world, and you adore your child in ways that are almost too profound for words. Eventually, baby teeth will start to erupt, and the process of teething can certainly be a painful one! Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about baby teeth.
Are Dental X-Rays Necessary?
Your first question will probably have to do with X-rays. Dental X-rays are important, no matter the age of the patient. They are essential for oral health, even if indirectly. The X-ray lets the dentist see things that the eye can’t see, and when it comes to dental health, that is incredibly important and can’t be ignored. Radiation levels are very low, so it is a safe procedure to do. Plus, it’s important that a baseline is established for future X-rays to determine the development of dental and oral health as your baby gets older.
Does the Pacifier Need to Go?
Let’s say that your child is obsessed with their paci and won’t let it go. Babies will naturally use fingers, thumbs, or pacifiers to help self-soothe during their teething phase. It’s a habit that will eventually go away on its own. That’s why until your baby is two or three years old, the pacifier can stay.
Are Fillings Really Necessary?
Baby teeth are meant to fall out. So that begs the question: are fillings necessary? As it turns out, the answer is yes. Baby teeth lead the way for permanent, adult teeth – they make the spaces where the more durable teeth end up. The way teeth are positioned can affect basic skills such as talking and chewing. Cavities and tooth decay can lead to gum disease and other complications that can weaken adult teeth, too.
What About Sealants?
Brushing and flossing are important, and you want to eventually teach your kids how to do both. However, when they’re still babies, you’ll have to brush for them. Sealants go a long way towards protecting the health of their first teeth. Getting sealants done is essential, especially since they are super effective against cavities and other forms of tooth decay.
You Can Trust Olney Dental for All of Your Dental Care Needs
For all of your oral care questions and concerns, Olney Dental has the expertise and professionalism to get them the answers they need. Olney Dental is ready to supply you with expert service in a professional environment. Schedule an appointment online today! For more information on how we can give your family the best dentist experience available, give us a call at (301) 250-1057 or contact us online. For more dental tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Pinterest.