What If Baby Teeth Don’t Matter? The Big Deal Behind Little Smiles
About This Event
For years, parents and even some providers have brushed off the importance of baby teeth with the phrase, “They’re just going to fall out anyway.” But these small teeth play a big role in growth, development, airway, nutrition, and lifelong oral health. This engaging course explores why early oral health matters — from guiding facial growth and speech to supporting nutrition and confidence — and how dental professionals can better communicate this value to families. Using evidence-based examples and real-life stories from pediatric practice, participants will learn how to integrate early prevention, functional assessment, and family communication strategies that truly help every child thrive.
Learning Objectives
- Explain the developmental importance of primary teeth in oral and facial growth.
- Identify key systemic and functional connections between early oral health, nutrition, and speech.
- Describe the impact of early childhood caries on permanent dentition and overall well-being.
- Apply communication strategies to help families value prevention and early dental visits.
- Integrate holistic tools such as oral function evaluation, prevention, fluoride therapy, and caries risk assessment into everyday care.
Additional Event Information
Target Audience
Dentists, Dental Hygienists, Dental Assistants, Dental Therapists, Dental Educators, Dental Hygiene Educators, Dental Assistant Educators, Dental Students, Dental Hygiene Students, Dental Assisting Students, Office Managers
Event Format
On-demand
CE Credits
1.5*