Primary Teeth Eruption in Aurora, CO

Parents will agree that their babies’ first smiles are a delight to see and experience. These smiles, however, can quickly turn to discomfort, tears, and other medical issues in the absence of oral hygiene, which should start as early as when your baby is born.

Tooth decay in young children is prevalent worldwide; in the United States alone, more than 40% of children experience tooth decay by the time they reach kindergarten. There is a misconception that babies’ and young children’s oral hygiene is not as important as that of older children or adults, but the opposite is true. Your baby and toddler’s primary teeth are essential for the development of adult teeth and can play an essential role in lifelong oral health.

What Are Primary Teeth?

It might come as a surprise, but the crowns of the 20 primary teeth, also commonly known as “baby teeth,” are almost completely formed at birth. The four front teeth, two upper and two lower are usually the first to erupt and as early as six months after birth. After that, the remaining teeth gradually erupt until the age of three, when most children have a full set of primary teeth.

How Important Are Primary Teeth?

For the first six years, your child is not only dependent on their primary teeth for chewing and eating, but these teeth also contribute to the healthy development of your child’s jaws and muscles. In addition, primary teeth play a significant role in helping with proper word formation,  pronunciation and maintaining the space required for adult teeth.

Teaching your child healthy eating habits, good brushing and flossing routines, and taking them for regular dental checkups will help their mouths stay healthy and keep them smiling confidently throughout their lives.