As your baby grows, their bodies change. It’s normal to wonder (and worry) about their development. When it comes to teeth, there are average timeframes of when they are likely to emerge.
General Timeline for Baby Teeth
- 8 Incisors – Your child’s incisor teeth will likely be the first teeth to emerge sometime between 6-13 months. These are the front teeth on the top and bottom of their mouth. As soon as that first tooth comes in, it’s time for your child’s first dentist visit! Even if they haven’t had their first tooth come in by age one, we still recommend making them an appointment.
- 4 Canines – Between 16-23 months, your child will likely get their corner teeth, called the canines. These pointy teeth help with tearing food.
- 8 Molars – A child’s first set of molars are likely to emerge between 14-19 months, while their second set of molars are sometime between their 2nd and 3rd birthdays. They are important for grinding and chewing food.
A Full Set of Baby Teeth
As soon as your child’s teeth emerge, you can help them maintain good oral hygiene with daily brushing and flossing and regular visits to the dentist. By age 3, most children have their full set of 20 baby teeth. These teeth help them learn to speak, eat, and smile with confidence. They also act as placeholders in their mouth for their underlying permanent teeth.
Losing Their Baby Teeth
Many children begin losing their baby teeth around 6 years old, though they can get wiggly and fall out earlier. If your child has a loose tooth, avoid pulling it. Encourage them to gently wiggle it with a clean finger or tissue. They will continue periodically losing teeth until about 12 or 13 years old. After this age, they should have 28 permanent teeth.
General Timeline for Adult Teeth
- 4 First Molars – between 6-7 years
- 8 Incisors – between 6-8 years
- 4 Canines & 4 Premolars– between 9-13 years
- 8 Second Molars – between 11-13 years
- 1-4 Third Molars – between 17 and 26 years, if at all
Gentle Dentist for Kids in Tyler, TX
Regular childhood dental visits will reduce your child’s risk of dental disease and being able to develop a positive association with the dentist will lessen their dental anxiety in the future.
Dr. Patrick and our friendly team understands that the dentist’s office can feel like a scary place for kids. We are committed to making the experience at Storybook Smiles as comfortable and fun as possible! Our office is cozy and stocked with amenities.
If you’re wondering if your child’s teeth are on track or you’re concerned about a specific oral health issue, please contact us today to schedule an appointment!
