PRIMARY TEETH

Did you know that children should get their first dental exam by the time of their first birthday? Keeping your infant or toddler's teeth free from decay is not only important to their speech developement but also encourages healthy dental hygiene habits.
	Parents should help their children brush at least twice a day, using a toothbrush specially designed for their smaller mouths. Children should not use toothpaste that has baking soda or tarter control ingredients, as they are too harsh for their teeth. Ask Dr. Dieska, Dr. Darling or one of the hygenists which type of toothpaste and what size brush is best for your child.

Look at the chart of the primary teeth to the right. There are a total of 20 primary teeth, that begin forming before the child is born. These teeth have several very important functions.

Have you ever tried to say a tongue twister with missing teeth? Hard, isn’t it?

Your teeth are needed to sound out many letters of the alphabet. So it is important to make sure you keep your teeth healthy to ensure proper speech.

The primary teeth act as place keepers for your permanent teeth, helping guide the permanent teeth into their proper position. Your primary teeth also help you to chew your food properly. The front teeth (cuspids and incisors) help you cut and bite food, and the back teeth (molars) help you to grind and mash your food.