Baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, usually start to emerge between the ages of 6 months and 1 year. Children typically have 20 baby teeth, which are gradually replaced by permanent teeth starting around the age of 6. Baby teeth are important for proper speech development, chewing food, and holding space for permanent teeth. Losing baby teeth is a normal part of a child's growth, and they often fall out in the same order they erupted. Taking care of baby teeth is crucial as they can develop cavities and infections, affecting the permanent teeth’ health underneath. Baby teeth are smaller and whiter than permanent teeth and have thinner enamel. The first baby tooth to erupt is usually one of the lower central incisors, followed by the upper central incisors. Around the age of 3, most children have a full set of baby teeth. Baby teeth play a role in guiding permanent teeth into their proper positions. It's important to teach children good oral hygiene habits from an early age to ensure the health of their baby teeth.
