Baby Teeth

Our first teeth have various names, including “primary teeth,” “milk teeth” or “temporary teeth.” Every child has 8 incisors, 4 canine teeth and 8 molars, for a total of 20 teeth. Generally speaking, the two bottom, central incisors are the first to break through the gums when infants near the age of 6 or 7 months. The last teeth to erupt are the second primary molars, which start to show by the age of 24 to 30 months. Milk teeth gradually fall out to make way for the permanent teeth, starting by age 5 or 6 years and ending by age 12 or 13 years.

Of course, there are major anatomical and physiological differences between primary teeth and permanent teeth. For example, the primary teeth have thinner, more translucent enamel, making them look paler. Furthermore, since the enamel is less calcified, they are more susceptible to dental cavities.

For more information about primary teeth, please ask us your questions on your next visit to the Clinique Dentaire Martin Bélanger.