The movement of the tooth through the gum line is referred to as eruption. Infants' teeth coming in is referred to as teething. The time of each child's teeth eruption varies. The order in which teeth erupt is more consistent, even though the exact date may change from child to child. While the child is still in the womb, the first teeth begin to erupt. Around week five of pregnancy, the baby's jaws begin to show the first indications of primary teeth. The 20 primary teeth that are present in a newborn are all buried behind the gums at birth.
Baby and Permanent Teeth
The first tooth often shifts position toward the front of the lower jaw. Around age six, the first permanent molar teeth appear. The back molars in the child erupt. They are then followed by baby incisors which give way to canines. They grow in the holes in the gums left by missing baby teeth.
Tooth Decay in Children's Teeth
Dental decay can be prevented. Early adoption of good oral hygiene habits and a balanced diet can significantly reduce the risk of developing dental decay. Infant teeth with decay must be treated by a dentist. Sometimes it is necessary to receive specialized care in a hospital while under a general anesthetic. If not treated, neglected decaying baby teeth can result in oral pain, dental abscesses, and problems with the adjoining teeth. Infants with severely decayed baby teeth may have difficulty sleeping or eating, which can slow growth. If a baby molar is lost prematurely due to severe decay, nearby baby teeth may shift into the space and affect the adult tooth's ability to emerge properly when it comes to spacing. Visit our clinic today to learn about children's oral health.