How a Baby's Teeth Grow
-
Before Birth
-
Teeth begin developing while the child is still in the womb. Babies begin developing teeth between the third and sixth month of pregnancy, but some babies develop faster or slower than others. The mother's diet during pregnancy can impact the health of a baby's teeth.
Infants and Toddlers
-
While all children develop at different rates, most children begin to break their first tooth between 5 and 7 months. The crown of the tooth develops first and before the tooth even breaks through the skin is almost fully developed. Once the tooth is developed, it begins "cutting" or "breaking" through, often causing discomfort. However, it isn't until several months later that the root of the tooth is fully developed. This step will not cause the kind of pain that was associated with teething. The teething process lasts until a child is 3 or 4 years old, then begins again when a child starts developing permanent teeth.
Children
-
By the age of 3, most children have approximately 20 teeth (10 on top and 10 on the bottom). These "baby teeth" are designed to fit a small mouth. When a child is 5 or 6 years old, the child's mouth becomes ready to erupt the larger adult teeth. Once the permanent teeth are fully developed under the skin, the baby teeth will become loose and eventually fall out. While some children may experience discomfort while their adult teeth erupt, most will experience little to no pain.
Care
-
It is recommended that children begin to brush their teeth (with help) as their first baby teeth are coming in. However, dentists recommend that children under the age of 3 use water or a baby tooth cleanser to brush their teeth. Children 3 and up should use a children's toothpaste. Children should also begin an annual dentist visit on or around their first birthday. Brushing and dental visits will help prevent unhealthy gums and unhealthy teeth.
-
