Tooth Development Chart

Baby teeth, also called primary teeth, are the first set of teeth that appear in a child's mouth. These teeth usually begin to emerge around the age of 6 months, and the full set of 20 primary teeth is usually in place by the age of 2 or 3 years. Baby teeth are smaller and more delicate than adult teeth, and they have thinner enamel (the hard outer layer of the tooth). They are also more prone to cavities because of their thinner enamel.

As the child grows, the primary teeth will eventually be replaced by adult teeth, also known as permanent teeth. The process of replacing primary teeth with adult teeth is called tooth exfoliation. Tooth exfoliation usually begins around the age of 6, when the first adult molars appear in the back of the mouth. The process continues until the age of 21, when the full set of 32 adult teeth is usually in place. Adult teeth are larger and stronger than primary teeth, and they have thicker enamel. They are also spaced further apart, which allows for proper chewing and biting.

It's important for children to take good care of their primary teeth, as they play a vital role in the development of the mouth and jaw, and they help guide the adult teeth into the correct position. Children should brush their teeth twice a day with a pea-sized amount of toothpaste, and they should visit the dentist regularly to ensure that their teeth are healthy and developing properly.