During our lifetime we have two sets of teeth; we have 20 temporary baby teeth and 32 permanent adult teeth. We’d like to walk you through the stages of our teeth briefly to hopefully give you some insight in how to take care of your child’s teeth from baby to adult.
Birth to Three Years Old
The 20 baby teeth that will appear in the first three years of your child’s life are in your baby’s jawbones already at birth. Baby teeth are for appearance, speaking and chewing as well as to hold space in the baby’s mouth for upcoming adult teeth. Your baby’s teeth will fall out eventually, but it’s important to take great care of them.
Three to Six Years Old
Most children have all 20 baby teeth come in from around the ages of 3 to 6. Children should brush their teeth for two minutes two times per day every day to help protect their baby teeth.
Six to 12 Years Old
Around the ages of 6 to 12 adult teeth will start to appear in your child’s mouth as they gradually lose their baby teeth. Your child’s first adult teeth to come in will be molars, which will help shape your child’s face as well as affect the health and position of the remaining adult teeth that will soon arrive.
12 to 17 Years Old
Cavities strike children and adults of all ages. Children who eat sugary foods and drink juice, energy drinks and sugary drinks are putting themselves at risk for gum disease and tooth decay. Great oral health habits are especially important to those who are wearing braces, and it’s always important to wear a mouthguard while playing sports.
17 to 21 Years Old
The last teeth to appear in our mouths are wisdom teeth, which usually come in around ages 17-21. Normally by the age of 21 all 32 adult teeth have appeared.
If you have a question about how to take great care of your child’s teeth from birth to adulthood, we’re happy to help. Contact us today to talk to a member of the Schumacher & Bauer, DDS team to learn more about the importance of great early oral health care to set your child up for success.
Source: 2min2x, “About Kids’ Teeth”
