Do baby teeth need to be filled since they are going to fall out anyway?
The last baby tooth falls out usually at age twelve. A child can have a toothache that can last many years if fillings are not done. A baby tooth can also become infected and cause serious health problems if not treated promptly when a cavity develops.

Does a baby's teeth need to be brushed?
As soon as a tooth erupts into the mouth, it can be susceptible to tooth decay. The first baby tooth erupts in a baby's mouth at around seven months of age. At this time a parent should lightly brush the tooth with a soft baby toothbrush. No toothpaste is necessary at this time. Warm water and light brushing are sufficient to cleanse the teeth and remove plaque.

Is milk good for teeth?
Teeth look like bones but they are not the same thing. Once erupted into the mouth, teeth are fully formed. Additional drinking of milk provides no benefit to teeth. In fact, milk is high in sugar and can help to cause cavities if teeth are not properly cared for.

Dr. Christy Haffner
Pediatric Dentistry
3300 Old Milton PKWY
Suite 250
Alpharetta, GA 30005
770-777-9400

FAQ's Page 2

Can a knocked out baby tooth be reimplanted into the tooth socket?
A baby tooth lost due to trauma will not survive if reimplanted into the mouth. The tooth will either become infected or it will fuse to the bone and cause a problem for the child. Permanent teeth however, should be reimplanted into the socket as quickly as possible if they become dislodged.

Does a pacifier harm baby teeth?
A pacifier used beyond the age of one can cause serious skeletal deformation in the jaws. The skeletal changes in the jaws can not only affect the way the mouth and teeth look, but it can also adversely affect a child's speech. A good way to encourage your child to get rid of their habit is to have the child leave the pacifier under their pillow for the "Tooth Fairy". This is usually an acceptable way for a child to get rid of their habit.