Over time, a child's dentition evolves. This is manifested by the increase in the number of teeth of the child but also by the formation of definitive teeth in replacement of the provisional teeth, the famous milk teeth. L'appearance of baby's teeth is a big change in its evolution.
On average, the child must wait until the age of 14 before having a complete dentition. Decoding.
Find out how many teeth a child has
Many parents have questions about baby's teeth and more precisely the age at which they come out. The number of teeth a child has varies according to his age. In fact, each human being changes teeth once in his life.
At the age of 6, the child has a total of twenty milk teeth and molars. These will slowly fall out to make room for twenty-eight teeth and four permanent molars.
By the age of 14, the permanent dentition is almost completely formed. Towards adulthood, four wisdom teeth will come through, but this is not systematic.
Number of baby teeth vs. permanent teeth and other differences
The main distinction that can be made between baby teeth and permanent teeth is their number. Indeed, the first ones are twenty while the second ones are thirty-two, including wisdom teeth.
In addition, deciduous and permanent teeth have a different appearance. For example, the incisors of the permanent teeth have a serrated edge while those of the deciduous teeth have a smooth edge.
On the other hand, baby teeth appear whiter than the child's future permanent teeth. This is due to the stronger enamel of the permanent teeth. But once the teeth have fully erupted, the color difference between the teeth is no longer noticeable.
If you want to know more about recognize baby teeth of your child, do not hesitate to consult our dedicated article.
Teething: how many baby teeth does a baby have, and when do they come out?
The child's teeth do not all come out at the same time. Moreover, the age of appearance of the teeth is highly variable although they generally come out in a recurring order.
Let's discover the different stages of teething:
Stage 1: The first milk teeth break through
A child's first baby teeth come through between 6 and 12 months. The teeth in question are the lower and upper incisors.
Stage 2: the breakthrough of the lateral incisors
Between 7 and 16 months, the upper and lower lateral incisors arrive in turn.
Stage 3: the breakthrough of the first molars
Between 12 and 19 months, the first molars from the top and bottom come out.
Stage 4: The first canines break through
Between 16 and 23 months of age, the child's first canines emerge on the upper and lower jaws.
Stage 5: The breakthrough of the second molars
Finally, between 20 and 33 months of age, the upper and lower second molars break through.
On average, a child's first set of teeth is complete between 24 and 30 months. This plays a major role in the development of the permanent dentition and influences the formation of the child's face.
When should I make an initial visit to the dentist?
Oral health specialists recommend an initial visit between the child's first and second year, when the baby teeth have begun to grow in. This first appointment is an opportunity to take stock and build confidence for future care.
In addition, the practitioner will educate the parents and the child on oral hygiene. To ensure the good health and vitality of his teeth, the child must avoid sugar, eat balanced meals and brush his teeth at least twice a day from the age of 2, using an adapted toothbrush and accompanied by an adult.
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