CHILD DENTAL CARE TIPS: UNDERSTANDING BABY TEETH ERUPTION SEQUENCES AND COMMON CONCERNS

Baby Teeth Eruption Sequence: What to Expect

Baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, typically start to emerge when your child is around six months old and continue to come in until about age three. Here’s a general timeline of what you can expect:

1. Lower central incisors (front teeth) - 6 to 10 months

2. Upper central incisors - 8 to 12 months

3. Upper lateral incisors (beside the front teeth) - 9 to 13 months

4. Lower lateral incisors - 10 to 16 months

5. First molars (back teeth used for grinding) - 13 to 19 months

6. Canines (pointy teeth) - 16 to 23 months

7. Second molars - 23 to 33 months

Permanent Teeth Eruption Sequence: What to Expect

Permanent teeth, also known as adult teeth, usually begin to appear around age six and continue until the late teens or early twenties. Here’s the general sequence:

1. First molars - 6 to 7 years

2. Central incisors - 6 to 8 years

3. Lateral incisors - 7 to 8 years

4. Canines (lower) - 9 to 10 years

5. First premolars - 9 to 11 years

6. Second premolars - 10 to 12 years

7. Canines (upper) - 11 to 12 years

8. Second molars - 11 to 13 years

9. Third molars (wisdom teeth) - 17 to 21 years

What to Do When Teeth Erupt Palatal or Lingual to Their Adult Teeth

Sometimes, baby teeth don’t fall out before the adult teeth start coming in, causing the new teeth to grow in behind the baby teeth. This can create a double row of teeth, often referred to as "shark teeth." Here’s what you can do:

1. Observe: In many cases, the baby teeth will eventually fall out on their own. Give it a few weeks to see if the problem resolves itself.

2. Encourage Wiggling: If the baby teeth are loose, encourage your child to gently wiggle them with their tongue or fingers to help them fall out.

3. Visit the Dentist: If the baby teeth don’t fall out on their own or if the adult teeth are growing in crookedly, schedule a visit with your dentist. They might recommend removing the baby teeth to make room for the adult teeth.

When Baby Teeth Don’t Drop or Adult Teeth Don’t Come In

If baby teeth don’t fall out or if there’s a delay in the adult teeth coming in, it can cause concern. Here’s what to do:

1. Consult Your Dentist: If a baby tooth hasn’t fallen out by the expected age or if an adult tooth hasn’t appeared within six months of losing a baby tooth, see your dentist. They may take X-rays to see what’s going on beneath the gums.

2. Orthodontic Evaluation: Sometimes, a child may need to see an orthodontist if there are issues with the alignment or spacing of their teeth. Early intervention can help prevent more complex problems later on.

When to See an Orthodontist

It’s generally recommended to have an orthodontic evaluation by age seven. This doesn’t necessarily mean your child will need braces right away, but it allows the orthodontist to monitor development and intervene early if needed.

Preventing Dental Caries (Cavities)

Preventing cavities is crucial for maintaining your child’s oral health. Here are some tips:

1. Good Oral Hygiene: Teach your child to brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and to spit out the toothpaste after brushing.

2. Healthy Diet: Limit sugary snacks and drinks, which can lead to cavities. Encourage healthy eating habits, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and water.

3. Drink Water Throughout the Day: Drinking water helps neutralize the pH value in the mouth, reducing the risk of cavities.

4. Regular Dental Visits: Schedule regular dental check-ups starting from your child’s first birthday.

When Should Kids Start Using Floss?

Kids should start flossing once they have two teeth that touch. Typically, this happens around age two or three. Parents should help with flossing until children are about 8 to 10 years old, as they may not have the dexterity to do it effectively on their own.

Ensuring your child has a healthy smile involves understanding the sequences of baby and permanent teeth eruption, addressing common concerns, and promoting good oral hygiene habits. Regular visits to your dentist can help monitor your child’s dental development and prevent issues before they arise. At Penn Pacific Dental Center, we are dedicated to supporting your child’s journey to a lifetime of healthy smiles.