If you have children, then you are probably extremely familiar with the process of teething. If your children are a bit older, you may be onto the next stage where you child is now losing their baby teeth and gaining the permanent set they will have for the rest of their lives. The family dentistryexperts know that dealing with teething and baby teeth can be a bit overwhelming when you don’t know what to expect. Keep reading to gain a better understanding of your child’s baby teeth.
THE FIRST SET OF TEETH
Your child’s first set of teeth are present in their jaw when they are born. Typically, your child will start teething around 6 months old, and the process can continue for the next year and a half or so. The first teeth that come in are the central incisors, followed by the lateral incisors, first molars, canines, and finally the second molars. Your child will experience discomfort and irritability as their teeth come in. Your child will have 20 teeth total when they have all of their baby teeth.
You should begin bringing your child to a family dentistry service sometime after they get their first tooth and before their first birthday. These appointments are great to get your child comfortable with visiting the dentist, and they will give you an opportunity to discuss any information and concerns with a dentist.
GETTING ADULT TEETH
When it comes to losing baby teeth and developing the new, permanent set, the teeth fall out in basically the same order in which they came in. A child typically loses their central incisors around 6 or 7 years old and loses the last of their teeth by around age 12. These ages are estimations. If your child developed their baby teeth early, they will probably be younger when they develop their permanent teeth, and vice versa. The permanent teeth will begin to come in soon after the baby tooth has come out.
FAMILY DENTISTRY AT INNOVATIVE DENTAL
It’s important to begin healthy teeth habits early, especially when it comes to your children. With family dentistry services, you ensure that your children’s teeth are being taken care of throughout their entire lives.
10 facts about baby teeth.
We’re a family here at baytown we understand your worry to take care of your baby’s oral health. For those first time parents – you may have many questions about your new child’s teeth and oral health. Here are 10 facts about baby teeth.
- There are 20 baby teeth as opposed to 32 permanent teeth.
- Baby teeth are whiter in color than permanent teeth. This is why permanent teeth look more yellow when they erupt.
- Baby teeth start forming when babies are in utero.
- The first baby teeth to erupt are typically lower central incisors.
- The first baby teeth to be lost are also the lower central incisors.
- Baby teeth have thinner enamel (the outer white hard layer). This means that when a cavity starts it progresses much faster than a cavity in a permanent teeth that has thicker enamel.
- Baby teeth serve many purposes but one of the biggest is holding space for the permanent teeth.
- Many children grind their teeth when they are younger. Don’t worry, this usually stops when they get a few permanent teeth in their mouth.
- Baby teeth should be brushed as soon as they erupt.
- Extended bottle feeding not only contributes to decay early on but also increases the risk of childhood obesity.
WHY BABY TEETH MATTER
Your child’s primary teeth play a crucial role in their life. They may only be around for the first few years, but they set the stage for dental health and proper development in the future.
- They make chewing possible so that babies can learn to eat solid food
- They help kids learn to speak quickly and clearly
- They save space for permanent teeth as children’s’ mouths grow
- They help kids learn the importance of dental hygiene
We love our patients and love to help them form healthy dental life that will last them a lifetime. For more information call us today to answer all of your questions so get appointment today.