Tooth Eruption
Even though they aren’t visible, children’s primary teeth begin forming
before they are even born. At around the four month mark the primary teeth begin
pushing through the gums. By the age of three, all 20 primary teeth have
erupted.
Permanent teeth begin appearing around age 6, starting with the first
molars and lower central incisors. This process continues until around
age 21. Adults have 28 permanent teeth, or up to 32 including wisdom
teeth.
Even before your baby’s first tooth erupts you can use a warm clean
washcloth to gently swab the gums clean after every meal. When the first
tooth erupts you can gently brush with a soft toothbrush to get them
used to having something in their mouths. Do not use toothpaste until
your child is at least 2 years old. At around age two you can begin
applying a pea-sized amount. Emphasizing healthy dental habits at an
early age contributes to better oral health in the future.
If you live in or around Elmhurst and have a question about your
child's permanent tooth eruption, call our office today!
Go back to Patient Education
|