Understanding Tooth Eruption: A Timeline for Baby and Permanent Teeth

The first tooth is a major milestone for a baby, one of many dental-related events that will occur over the next few years. Understanding what to expect from each tooth eruption throughout your child’s life can help parents make sure everything is going as planned. That way, you can ask your pediatric dentist in South Plainfield, NJ, the essential questions as your child grows.

Baby Teeth Eruption or Primary Dentition

At birth, a baby already has 20 primary or baby teeth formed. They start to erupt or push through the soft tissue of the gum. The average age for the first tooth to appear is around 7.5 months. Parents may see it anywhere from six to eight months. After that first one appears, they tend to come in four-month increments.

Your baby should see the pediatric dentist before their first birthday. This will help the dentist ensure that the baby’s teeth are coming in as they should.

Permanent Teeth Eruption or Secondary Dentition

The first permanent teeth are typically molars that come in behind the baby teeth, usually between the ages of six and seven. There will be four molars total at this stage, two upper and two lower, one on each side.

As primary or baby teeth fall out, permanent teeth take their place. The average timeline looks like this:

• Central incisors—6 to 8 years old
• Lateral incisors—7 to 8 years old
• Canine teeth—9 to 13 years old
• Premolars—9 to 13 years old
• Wisdom teeth—17 to 21 years old

Children tend to follow their own timeline. This is one reason pediatric dentistry in South Plainsfield, NJ, is so critical. Our dentists will monitor the eruption of both primary and secondary teeth and provide preventive care to keep them healthy when they finally emerge. Call our office today to make an appointment.