LOSING BABY TEETH & THUMBSUCKING

Losing Baby Teeth

The process by which a child loses their baby teeth is a simple one. At about age six the roots of the baby teeth begin to dissolve; as this happens the teeth begin to get loose. A baby tooth may wiggle about for quite a while before the tooth actually falls out. Gentle coaxing by pushing on the tooth is not harmful; however, be sure that your child does not put excess pressure on the tooth with his tongue. It is not abnormal for the permanent tooth to make an appearance with the baby tooth still in the mouth. If however, the baby tooth does NOT fall out soon after the permanent tooth breaks through, notify your dentist. An over retained baby tooth may interfere with the normal development of the adult tooth.

Baby teeth are also responsible for guiding the permanent teeth into their proper position in the jaw. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely due to an accident or decay it is important that the space be held open. Usually this is done with a little device called a space maintainer. If this space is not held open, the tooth underneath may have problems growing in later on. Baby teeth generally come out when they are ready, without any complications. Notify your dentist of any problems or questions.

Thumbsucking

Sucking is a normal reflex of a baby. Simply put, it relaxes and comforts them. The need for sucking usually comes to an end between the age of two or three. But for some, prolonged and vigorous sucking after the age of four can cause problems with normal dental development. If you are concerned your child’s sucking may cause dental problems, visit your dentist and discuss the matter. He or she can tell you the best method for weaning your child from the habit.

Your baby’s mouth and teeth begin to form within the first few weeks of pregnancy. Taking good care of yourself during pregnancy affects the dental health of your baby.