| Allan I. Abolafia, D.D.S. |  |
Allen W. Ackerman, D.D.S. |
| Dec. 1999 | THE TOOTH TRIBUNE | Jan. 2000 |
ABOUT YOUR BABY'S FIRST (primary) TEETH
Your baby's first tooth appears at around six months of age. The lower front two teeth are usually the first to break through the gums. All of your child's primary teeth are usually "out" by age three. Don't be alarmed if your baby doesn't follow the schedule exactly. Variations are always expected in a baby's growth.
Your child's first set of teeth are extremely important. Keeping them
healthy helps allow your child to chew easily, learn to speak clearly
and look good. Poorly maintained ''baby teeth'' can become diseased
and affect your child's general health. Never be misled by the notion
that you needn't care for your baby's primary teeth because they "will
fall out anyway!"
When baby teeth are lost too soon, a space keeper may be needed to
"hold the space open" until the permanent tooth comes through. Without
such spacing, new teeth may come in crowded or may not come in at
all. This may later require costly corrective treatment.
The best time to take your child to the dentist is between two and a half and three years of age. Your dentist will check for decay and other problems and review the proper ways to clean your child's teeth, with you. The dentist will also evaluate any "bad habits" such as thumb sucking and determine your child's fluoride needs. An early start is the best way for your dentist to prevent problems and establish a happy, ongoing relationship with your child.
At The Dentists' Office at the Hudson Valley Mall , we look forward to serving every member of your family. Please call (924) 336-5252 for an appointment.
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