Primary (baby) teeth come and go. However, many parents assume it's no big deal if their children lose a tooth prematurely. After all, baby teeth fall out by design. Unfortunately, premature tooth loss can lead to serious issues if you don't take care.
When is Primary Tooth Loss Premature?
Children typically start losing their primary teeth between the ages of six and twelve. When the tooth falls out naturally, it's not an example of premature tooth loss. It just means the adult teeth are ready to start coming in.
Premature tooth loss occurs when your child loses a tooth for other reasons. All the things that can cause adults to lose teeth can have the same results with a child's primary teeth.
All of these things can happen to children and cause them to lose a tooth prematurely.
Why is Premature Primary Tooth Loss a Problem?
It's true that your child will lose their primary teeth anyway, but losing them prematurely can cause issues. Primary teeth are placeholders. They also work as guides for the adult teeth that will come in behind them.
When a child doesn't have that placeholder, their adult teeth can come in crooked. In addition, the teeth surrounding the gap may become misaligned. This can cause the other teeth to come in crooked as well, even though they still have their placeholders. This can lead to tooth crowding and other malocclusions if left unchecked.
How You Can Prevent Premature Primary Tooth Loss
The three rules for keeping premature teeth healthy are the same rules that apply to adult teeth.
In cases where there are already signs of decay, your pediatric dentist will likely suggest ways to save the tooth rather than remove it. This can include:
In cases where a tooth has to come out, or a tooth cannot be saved, your child may need an orthodontic device. The device will work to maintain the spacing of your child's teeth. Devices such as retainers, space maintainers, and braces may become necessary.
Speak With a Pediatric Dentist about Premature Primary Tooth Loss
It's important for your child to see a pediatric dentist. The dentist can spot potential problems before they can become issues. In addition, the dentist can answer all your questions about premature primary tooth loss. For more information, contact Round Lake Dental Clinic or a similar location.
Share6 April 2016
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