18/08/2025
Milk teeth, also known as baby teeth, primary teeth, or deciduous teeth, are the first set of teeth that develop in humans and many mammals. They start forming in the embryo and begin erupting in infancy, typically around 6-12 months of age. A full set of 20 milk teeth will usually be present by the age of 3. These teeth play crucial roles in chewing, speaking, and holding space for the permanent teeth that will eventually replace them.
At what age do baby's teeth appear? - Children's Dentist
Here's a more detailed look at milk teeth:
Development and Eruption:
Milk teeth begin developing during the fetal stage, around the sixth week of pregnancy, according to the Indian Dental Association.
They start erupting, or coming through the gums, around 6-12 months of age.
The lower central incisors (front teeth) are usually the first to appear, followed by the upper central incisors.
A full set of 20 milk teeth (10 in the upper jaw and 10 in the lower jaw) is typically in place by the age of 3.
Functions of Milk Teeth:
Chewing and Digestion: Milk teeth enable children to chew food properly, aiding in digestion.
Speech Development: They play a role in the proper articulation of sounds and speech development.
Space Maintenance: Milk teeth maintain space for the permanent teeth that will eventually replace them.
Facial and Jaw Development: They contribute to the healthy development of facial and jaw muscles.
Transition to Permanent Teeth:
The process of milk teeth falling out and being replaced by permanent teeth, also known as exfoliation, usually begins around the age of 6.
The first permanent molars often erupt without any baby teeth being lost.
By the age of 10-12, most children will have lost all their baby teeth, which are then replaced by a full set of 32 permanent teeth.
Importance of Milk Teeth Care:
Even though they are temporary, milk teeth are important for a child's oral health and overall well-being.
Proper oral hygiene practice.
Many believe milk te
