Tooth loss may prevent proper development

The baby teeth have an important role in the development of the jaw, muscles, and adult teeth. They also aid in speech development. It is natural for baby teeth to fall out in the order in which they erupted as permanent teeth grow in to take their place. However, if a baby tooth is lost too soon, it can sometimes prevent proper development in the mouth.

Baby teeth can fall out early for a number of reasons. The most common causes are accidents resulting in tooth loss, or having to extract a baby tooth due to severe decay. Whichever the case, an empty space in your child’s mouth can cause problems if the permanent tooth doesn’t grow in soon after. The teeth around the space can start to tilt and shift, resulting in insufficient space for the adult tooth to grow.

This can interfere with the positioning of other teeth and cause crowding. Teeth that are crowded and out of alignment are more difficult to clean and are at increased risk of cavities.

Typically, the space left by a prematurely

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Baby teeth can fall out early for a number of reasons.

lost baby tooth must be saved, but this depends on the child’s age and location of the tooth. A space maintainer can prevent improper development by keeping the space open until the permanent tooth grows in. There are several different types of space maintainers that can be used for treatment.

If your child loses a tooth early, make an appointment with your dentist to discuss

whether or not a space maintainer is necessary for development. While losing a baby tooth early does not always lead to complications, it is safe to have a professional opinion before letting it go too long. Your dentist will help determine which type of space maintainer will work best for your child’s needs. The space maintainer is removed once the permanent tooth is ready to erupt.

CONSULTANT PAEDIATRICIAN, COLUMBIA ASIA HOSPITAL — BUKIT RIMAU.