Primary teeth are the first set of teeth in the growth and development of your child.
They are also often called baby teeth. Primary teeth are important for:
- proper chewing and eating,
- providing space for the permanent teeth and guiding them into the correct position, and
- permitting normal development of the jaw bones and muscles.
Primary teeth also affect the development of speech and add to an attractive appearance. While the front 4 teeth last until 6-7 years of age, the back teeth (cuspids and molars) aren’t replaced until age 10-13.
It is very important to maintain the health of the primary teeth. Neglected cavities can and frequently do lead to problems which affect developing permanent teeth.
