Normal Teething Timeline: Understanding Permanent Teeth Growth in Children

It can be concerning when your child's permanent teeth appear to be taking their time. This is especially true if your child's first tooth was extracted months ago, yet the new permanent teeth have not begun to appear. Understanding the normal teething timeline and recognizing the signs can help ease any worries and ensure proper care.

When Do Permanent Teeth Come In?

Permanent teeth usually start to emerge around age six or seven. The process continues into a person's late teens or early twenties. The first permanent teeth to appear are typically the lower central incisors and the closest molars. Here are some general guidelines for the order in which permanent teeth come in:

First molars: Around 6–7 years old Central incisors: Around 6–8 years old Lateral incisors: Around 7–8 years old Canine teeth: Around 9–13 years old Pre-molars: Around 9–13 years old Second molars: Around 11–13 years old Third molars (wisdom teeth): Around 17–21 years old if at all

Source: WebMD

Common Concerns and Tips for Parents

If your child has already had a tooth extracted, it's crucial to follow up with proper care. Consulting with a dentist to place a spacer is essential. Without appropriate care, the alveolar bone can shrink, making space for permanent teeth to grow. Pediatric dentists like James Bieneman, who treats many children with mishandled extractions, emphasize the importance of follow-up care.

Children often experience crooked adult teeth after having a baby tooth pulled without a spacer. This condition can lead to future orthodontic issues. Here are some tips to ensure your child's dental health:

Avoid extracting baby teeth unless necessary. If extraction is needed, consult a pediatric dentist for appropriate follow-up care. Arrange for a dental visit as soon as your child loses a baby tooth. Regular check-ups can help monitor the growth of permanent teeth. Ensure proper spacing with a spacer to prevent the alveolar bone from shrinking and affecting the alignment of new teeth. Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support dental health.

Note: If your child is experiencing prolonged delays or has additional concerns, consult a pediatric dentist for personalized advice.

Importance of Dental Care in Children

Before permanent teeth come in, children usually have 20 baby teeth (primary teeth) that start appearing around six months of age and continue until around age two or three. By age six or seven, these baby teeth begin to fall out, and their permanent counterparts start to grow.

Children should have all 28 adult teeth by the ages of 12 to 14. Losing all baby teeth by this age is common and indicates that the dental transition is proceeding as expected. However, it's essential to keep dental check-ups regular to monitor any potential issues and ensure that permanent teeth are growing in correctly.

Every child is unique, and their teething process can vary. Understanding the typical timeline and recognizing individual differences can help parents address concerns promptly. Always consult a pediatric dentist for personalized advice and care.