Why do I need to get my childs baby teeth filled? Isnt he or she just going to lose them?
Yes, your child is just going to lose them, but usually not all of them until about age 12 or later. Many negative things can happen in these years. Tooth decay can cause a toothache or even an abscessed tooth if it is not restored. A decayed tooth can also cause space loss. When teeth get soft with decay, they can get closer together. When this happens, the amount of space in the dental arch is reduced. When the permanent tooth comes in, there might not be room for it. Then the need for orthodontic care is much more likely. If this can be avoided, you will save time and money. If your childs tooth has a problem and will be lost soon, your dentist will advise you of this. A filling might not be necessary. With x-rays, you and your dentist can easily observe the eruption of a permanent tooth and the resorption of baby teeth. Properly informed, together you can make a good decision.
