In a message dated 97-01-25 18:00:50 EST, you write:

>Date:    Sat, 25 Jan 1997 17:58:06 -0500
>From:    "Marie Davis, Rn, Clc" <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: teeth again
>Just a few questions for my learned friends on this one
>Has anyone ever looked at the FACT that these teeth are meant to fall out?
>I wonder:
>   is the thickness of the enamel the same on baby teeth?
>   are they more subject to decay because the are baby teeth?
>   if they are supposed to fall out, what's the big deal? (other than the
>         obvious possible infection, abcess and pain)

My immediate reaction is yes, baby teeth do have a function and should be
"kept-up"
They not only hold the space for incoming adult teeth,but serve a great
purpose in speech development and tongue placement.   Any speech therapists
out there want to take a stab at this one?
Dittoes to all of you who have brought up points about heredity, maternal
diet etc.  We too have pedi dentists who rant and rave about weaning before
12 months and blame night BF for cavities.
Liz Flight, RN, CLE, IBCLC from sunny Jacksonville, FL