Tooth Eruption and Loss

Here They Come, There They Go…

Primary teeth, otherwise known as baby teeth, may be small, but they are extremely important for your child’s oral health and development. This first set of teeth begins to develop beneath the gums during the second trimester of pregnancy and begin to emerge above the gums approximately four to six months after birth. However, some children’s teeth emerge as early as 3 months or later around their first birthday.

Typically, preschool-aged children have a complete set of 20 baby teeth, including 4 molars on each arch (the top and bottom of the jaw). While the front four teeth last until 6-7 years of age, the back teeth (cuspids and molars) aren’t replaced until age 10-13. Typically, the earlier a child’s teeth emerge, the earlier they begin losing them and vise versa.

Baby teeth play a very important role in a child’s development which is why it is crucial to maintain healthy primary teeth. Developing proper speech, nurturing a healthy diet, instilling self-confidence, holding space for permanent teeth to erupt to create a straighter smile, and maintaining excellent oral health are five of the main benefits of maintaining healthy primary teeth.

Check out the chart below to learn about when each tooth is expected to begin erupting, the identification labeling of teeth, the parts of a tooth, and more.

If you have questions about when your child’s teeth may being to erupt, give our pediatric dentist office in Alpharetta, GA a call at Michael J. Leach D.D.S. Pediatric Dentistry Phone Number (770) 521-8855!