
Why Early Dental Care Matters for Children's Facial Development
It is crucial to prioritize children's dental health for proper facial and airway development. Crowded teeth in early childhood may lead to the need for braces, influenced by genetics and external factors. Habits like thumb-sucking can impact jaw development, resulting in a narrow jaw and protruding front teeth. Early allergies and mouth breathing habits can also affect jaw development in children. Addressing these issues early is key to promoting healthy dental and facial development.
In addition, the way a child talks and the position of their tongue can impact the shape and size of their teeth. Neglecting to address dental decay promptly in children can lead to teeth becoming crowded and spaced closer together as the back teeth move forward, ultimately affecting the appearance of their teeth. Children typically start getting their first teeth around 6 months of age.
To establish a solid foundation for good dental care, it is advised that children see a dentist as soon as their first teeth come in. By establishing healthy habits and preventing negative ones from developing, we can ensure that the child will have a bright and healthy smile for years to come.