Why are the Primary Teeth so Important?

Maintaining the health of the primary (baby) teeth is very important. Neglected cavities can and frequently do lead to problems which affect the developing permanent 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 are also an important part of the development of speech. The front four upper and lower primary teeth are usually lost between ages of 6 and 7 years old, while the back teeth (canines and molars) are usually lost between ages 10 and 13 years old.