Baby Teeth Growth

According to the Children's Hospital at the Medical University of South Carolina, a baby's teeth begin to form while they are still a fetus. It is important for the mother to have good nutrition for the development of these teeth. Baby teeth have four main anatomical parts and they grow in four main stages.

Anatomy

The four main components of a baby's tooth are the enamel, dentin, pulp, and root. The enamel is the outermost layer of the tooth according to dentistry.com. Dentin is very hard and is the inner layer and main part of the tooth. The pulp is on the inside of the tooth and contains nerves, connective tissue, capillaries, blood vessels and cells. The root is the part of the tooth that secures it to the jaw.

First Stage

The first stage of a baby's tooth growth begins when the baby is just a fetus, about six weeks into gestation. In this stage, the basic substance of a baby's tooth begins to form. It is very important for the mother to get plenty of vitamins and nutrients so that the baby's teeth can begin forming properly. Occasionally babies are born with teeth that have already broken through the gum line.

Second Stage

Around three to four months into gestation, the hard tissue that eventually surrounds the tooth begins to form, according to the Children's Hospital at the M.U.S.C. This hard tissue is also called enamel. For the enamel to form properly, it is important for the mother to get continue taking prenatal vitamins and eat a healthy diet.

Third Stage

The third stage of tooth growth occurs after the child is born. The process of the tooth coming through the gums is called eruption, according to simplyteeth.com. During this time of a baby's life, the gums will often become sore and the baby may experience some pain. With the teething process, the baby might become fussier, start chewing on everything within his reach, and the baby might drool more than usual. On average, a baby's first tooth will break through when they are about 6 months old.

Fourth Stage

The fourth and final stage of baby tooth growth is the loss of the primary teeth, also known as baby teeth. Most kids lose their first tooth around the age of five, according to the Children's Hospital at the M.U.S.C. This process could take a few months because each baby tooth needs to become loose enough to fall out. Some teeth may fall out on their own or get stuck in things like food or gum. Whether a baby is getting a first tooth or a school-aged kid is losing a first tooth, the process is one that many parents remember for years.

References

• Medical University of South Carolina
• Dentistry
• Simply Teeth