Many parents ask us every day why we should fill or treat primary teeth when they are going to be replaced, particularly when those teeth are often not causing any pain.
Their question is understandable, as we observe that children replace their first teeth at around the first year of primary school, or a little earlier or later, without this being a cause for concern.
The truth is that not all teeth change at the same time. The front incisors change between the ages of 5 and 7, the canines between 9 and 11, and the primary molars at the back between 11 and 12.
Depending on the age at which the primary teeth have decayed, and provided they are not ready to be replaced, we want to keep them in place until it is time for them to fall out naturally, so that:
1. The child can chew
With damaged or painful teeth, a child will prefer certain soft foods and will not use the muscles and jaws correctly, which can result in orthodontic problems and gingivitis.
2. The child can speak correctly
Without lisping and without feeling uncomfortable because their speech differs from that of other children.
3. The child can smile and feel good
This strengthens their self-image and self-confidence, because we know how often children tease others who have decayed teeth.
4. The child is not in pain
Pain can take away a child’s desire to eat, play, study or interact with other children and may lead an unhappy child to withdraw.
5. Space is preserved for the permanent teeth
The permanent teeth will erupt from underneath once the primary teeth fall out. Otherwise, if the permanent teeth do not have the space they need to emerge, they will erupt in ectopic positions — in other words, crooked — creating a need for orthodontic treatment (braces).
6. There is no infected environment
An infected environment can also adversely affect the health of the permanent teeth, creating suitable conditions for tooth decay to develop in them as well.
7. The child’s general health is not affected
There is a possibility of serious inflammation and large abscesses developing, which may even result in the child being admitted to hospital.
Important:
Once the child’s primary teeth have been treated, we need to identify why they decayed and then eliminate that cause. Otherwise, either the same teeth or the permanent teeth will decay again.
Tooth decay is not a hereditary disease and can be prevented through a suitable diet and proper oral hygiene.
Talk to your paediatric dentist early about the foods and cleaning methods that suit your child’s needs, and help your child enjoy a happy childhood free from dental problems.
