“Baby teeth” refers to the first set of teeth that develop in infants and children, also known as primary teeth or deciduous teeth. These teeth typically begin to emerge between 6 and 12 months of age and are eventually replaced by permanent teeth as the child grows.
The primary teeth serve several important functions. They help children chew and digest food properly, aid in speech development, and provide a space and guide for permanent teeth to grow into later. In addition, they also play a role in maintaining the structure and shape of the jawbone, which can impact a child’s facial appearance and overall oral health.
There are typically 20 baby teeth in total, with 10 on the upper jaw and 10 on the lower jaw. These teeth will start to fall out around the age of 6 or 7, and will be replaced by permanent teeth over the next few years. The process of losing baby teeth and growing permanent teeth is a normal and natural part of childhood development.
It’s important for parents to help their children take care of their baby teeth by establishing good oral hygiene habits early on, such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Good oral hygiene practices can help prevent cavities and other dental problems, and promote healthy development of permanent teeth.
In summary, baby teeth are the first set of teeth that develop in infants and children and are an important part of oral health and development. With proper care and attention, parents can help their children maintain healthy teeth and establish good oral hygiene habits that will benefit them throughout their lives.
