WHY ARE BABY TEETH IMPORTANT?
Baby teeth are important because neglected cavities can lead to problems that affect the development of permanent teeth. Your child’s baby teeth will help him/her chew, talk and smile. Baby teeth are also important because they:
- Provide space for the permanent teeth
- Guide permanent teeth into the correct position
- Permit normal development of the jaw bones and muscles
- Affect speech development
- Allow for proper nutrition
WHAT IS THE NATURAL PROGRESSION OF TEETH?
Children’s teeth begin forming before birth. Around 6 months, the baby teeth begin to come out, starting with the lower central incisors, followed closely by the upper central incisors. All baby teeth usually come in by age three. If your baby’s first tooth is coming in, it is time to schedule their first appointment.
Permanent teeth begin appearing around age 6, starting with the first molars and lower central incisors. This process continues until approximately age 21. Adults can have up to 32 permanent teeth, if you include all the wisdom teeth.