The process by which children's first teeth, also called baby or deciduous teeth, emerge follows a generally consistent developmental schedule. The formation of a full set of these primary teeth starts beneath the gums around the fourth month of pregnancy. This underscores the significance of a healthy prenatal diet for the developing teeth, gums, and bones of the infant.

In most cases, the first primary tooth will break through the gums between six months and one year of age. By the time a child is three years old, they will usually have their full complement of twenty primary teeth. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that parents arrange an initial "well-baby" dental appointment with a pediatric dentist approximately six months after the first tooth appears. Pediatric dentists use these opportunities to discuss preventative strategies with parents and children, emphasizing the importance of a consistent and stress-free daily oral care plan.

Despite their eventual loss, these baby teeth are vital for several reasons: they help with speech development, contribute to proper jaw growth, facilitate good chewing patterns, and ensure the correct spacing and alignment of the permanent teeth that will follow. Taking good care of primary teeth is key to preventing painful tooth decay, premature loss of teeth, nutritional deficiencies, and childhood gum problems.

In what order do primary teeth emerge?

As a general guideline, the first teeth to erupt are the central incisors (the very front teeth) on both the lower and upper jaws, usually between the ages of six and twelve months. These teeth, like all other primary teeth, benefit from gentle cleaning with a soft, clean cloth to reduce the risk of bacterial buildup. The central incisors are also typically the first to be lost, usually between the ages of six and seven years.

Following the central incisors, the lateral incisors (the teeth immediately beside the central incisors) will erupt on the upper and lower jaws, usually between nine and sixteen months old. These teeth are typically the next to be lost, usually between seven and eight years of age. Next, the first molars, the larger, flatter teeth situated towards the back of the mouth, will appear on the upper and lower jaws, usually between thirteen and nineteen months old. The arrival of these molars can sometimes cause discomfort. Gentle finger rubs, cool compresses, and teething toys can offer relief. First molars are typically lost between nine and eleven years of age.

Then, the canine (cuspid) teeth will usually erupt on the upper and lower jaws, typically between sixteen and twenty-three months old. These teeth are located next to the lateral incisors and are usually lost during the pre-teen years, between ten and twelve years old. Finally, the second molars complete the primary set on both the lower and upper jaws, usually between twenty-three and thirty-three months old. These molars are located at the very back of the mouth and are usually lost between the ages of ten and twelve years old.

What else is known about primary teeth?

Typically, the lower primary teeth will emerge before their corresponding upper teeth.
The emergence of primary teeth often happens in pairs, so you might see periods with no new teeth followed by periods where two or more appear around the same time.
Because children have smaller jaws, their primary teeth are smaller than their adult teeth and often appear to have a brighter, whiter shade.
It's quite normal for elementary school-aged children to have a mix of their original baby teeth and their permanent teeth coming in.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child's primary teeth, please feel free to consult with your pediatric dentist.