From the charming gummy smile of a baby to a mouth filled with teeth, it typically takes a few years. Witnessing the emergence of the first tooth is a significant moment, and as a parent, you are probably eager to learn about the expected timeline for its arrival and the subsequent ones.
At what age do babies typically begin teething?
Primary teeth, commonly known as baby teeth, milk teeth, or deciduous teeth, serve as temporary placeholders for your child's permanent teeth that will grow in later. They are essential for your child's overall development.
The eruption of baby teeth is a natural process in your child's normal growth, marking the appearance of their teeth in the mouth. By the age of three, your child should have 20 teeth. However, most of their primary teeth will emerge within the first two years of life. To accommodate the permanent teeth, your child will begin losing their baby teeth around six years of age.
Newborns have tooth buds beneath their gums that will eventually grow into 20 teeth. The eruption of teeth may not always occur according to the usual timeline and could be delayed. The timing of teething can vary among babies, typically beginning anywhere from four to twelve months of age. Early tooth development can be influenced by genetics. If you have any concerns regarding your baby's dental health, feel free to reach out to Lux Dental for assistance.
Sequence of Tooth Eruption and Functions of Each Baby Teeth Set
Here is the usual sequence in which baby teeth appear, along with the expected timing of their emergence and their respective functions:
Central Incisor
Role: The central incisors are slender and flat in shape. Their role involves cutting through the food you consume and maintaining the aesthetics and form of your lips. Additionally, they aid in articulating specific sounds like “th” and “t.” Furthermore, they assist in aligning the jaw correctly upon mouth closure. Both upper and lower central incisors are present in your mouth.
Lower Central Incisors:
The first tooth emerges between six and 10 months of age
Children typically lose their first tooth when they are between six and seven years old.
Upper Central Incisors:
The tooth emerges between eight and 12 months of age
A child loses a tooth at the age of six to seven years old
Lateral Incisors
Function: The lateral incisors are the pair of teeth located beside the central incisors on both sides. They are also known for being positioned towards the edges of the jaw or in a distal location. While their main role is to cut and tear food, their appearance is highly important as they are visible during eating, smiling, and speaking. You also have upper and lower lateral incisors.
Upper Lateral Incisors:
The first tooth emerges between nine and 13 months of age
A child loses their first tooth around the age of seven to eight years old
Lower Lateral Incisors:
The tooth emerges between the ages of 10 and 16 months
A child loses a tooth when they are seven to eight years old
Canine (Cuspid)
Role: Positioned at the "corners" of your dental arches, the canines feature a sharp, pointed biting surface that enables them to effectively grip and tear food.
Upper Canine:
The tooth emerges between 16 and 22 months of age
Children typically lose their first tooth between the ages of 10 and 12.
Lower Canine:
The tooth emerges between the ages of 17 and 23 months
A child loses a tooth between the ages of nine and 12.
Molars:
The largest teeth in your mouth are your molars. They have flat biting surfaces and are responsible for crushing, chewing, and grinding food. You possess a total of eight molars.
Upper First Molars:
The tooth emerges between 13 and 19 months of age.
A child loses a tooth between the ages of nine and 11.
Lower First Molars:
When the tooth emerges: typically between 14 and 18 months of age.
When a child loses a tooth: typically between the ages of nine and 11.
Upper Second Molars:
Typically, the tooth erupts between 25 and 33 months of age
When the tooth falls out: 10 to 12 years old
Lower Second Molar:
Typically, the tooth emerges between 23 and 31 months of age
Children typically lose their first tooth between the ages of 10 and 12.
Usually, children begin to get their permanent teeth around the age of six. The initial teeth to appear may vary, with some kids getting their first permanent molars first, while others get their incisors. By the age of 13, most of the 28 permanent teeth should have emerged and settled in place. Between 17 and 21 years old, one to four third molars, also known as wisdom teeth, may come in, increasing the total number of permanent teeth to 32.
Even though your baby's primary teeth will eventually be replaced by permanent teeth, it is important not to neglect your child's dental hygiene during their early years. Prioritizing healthy development and proper oral care will establish a foundation for good oral health in the future. Reach out to Lux Dental in downtown Vancouver today at 604-670-1256 to schedule your baby's initial appointment or to discuss any concerns you may have. We are excited to welcome you and your little one!
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