The eruption of primary teeth, also called deciduous or baby teeth, follows a fairly consistent timeline for most children. Primary teeth begin developing beneath the gums during the fourth month of pregnancy, making a nutritious prenatal diet essential for the infant’s teeth, gums, and jaw bones.

Request an Appointment

The first primary tooth usually emerges between 6 months and 1 year of age, and by age 3, most children have a full set of 20 primary teeth. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends scheduling a “well-baby” appointment with a pediatric dentist approximately six months after the first tooth emerges. Pediatric dentists guide parents on preventive strategies and stress the importance of a gentle, consistent home care routine.

Importance of Primary Teeth

Although primary teeth are temporary, they play several vital roles:

  • Support proper speech development
  • Guide jaw growth and alignment
  • Facilitate good chewing habits
  • Maintain proper spacing for adult teeth
  • Prevent premature tooth loss, tooth decay, and childhood periodontal disease

Order of Primary Tooth Eruption

  • Central incisors: Lower and upper front teeth (6–12 months). Lost around ages 6–7 years.
  • Lateral incisors: Adjacent to central incisors (9–16 months). Lost around ages 7–8 years.
  • First molars: Large back teeth (13–19 months). Lost around ages 9–11 years. Teething rings, cool gauze, or gentle finger massage can help relieve discomfort.
  • Canines (cuspids): Next to lateral incisors (16–23 months). Lost around ages 10–12 years.
  • Second molars: Last primary teeth at the back of the mouth (23–33 months). Lost around ages 10–12 years.

Additional Information

  • Baby girls often experience tooth eruption slightly earlier than boys.
  • Lower teeth usually erupt before upper teeth.
  • Teeth typically erupt in pairs, so some months may see no new teeth while others see multiple eruptions.
  • Primary teeth are smaller and whiter than permanent teeth.
  • Most school-age children have a mix of primary and permanent teeth.

If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s primary teeth, please contact our office for guidance.