It is important to fix baby teeth that have decay.

It is important to maintain baby teeth because they function to provide the foundations for speech, chewing, swallowing, and esthetics. In addition, baby teeth hold space and guide the emerging permanent teeth into the proper location. Tooth decay in baby teeth can lead to unnecessary pain and infection. A chronic infection surrounding the root of the baby tooth can damage the surface enamel of the adjacent developing permanent tooth. If a baby molar is lost early, space for the permanent tooth may be lost leading to crowding and malocclusion.  This can compromise orthodontic options and increase expense. It is important for children to see a pediatric dentist regularly and have a comprehensive oral health plan including prevention of tooth decay and treatment of any oral anomalies.