The Basics of Baby Teeth: Complete Guide for Parents

When it comes to your child’s smile, baby teeth play a bigger role than most parents realize. While many assume they’re just temporary and will eventually fall out, these little teeth are essential for chewing, speaking, guiding permanent teeth, and boosting your child’s confidence. At Dr. Gogia’s Super Specialty Dental Care Centre, Rohtak, our pediatric-friendly team led by Dr. Pradeep Gogia (MDS Endodontics, RCT & Smile Makeover Specialist) and Dr. Shilpa Gogia (Dental Surgeon) ensures that children receive gentle, expert care for their oral health right from the start.

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover the basics of baby teeth — their importance, eruption timeline, care routines, common dental problems, and how our clinic can help your child maintain a healthy smile.

What Are Baby Teeth?

Baby teeth, also called primary teeth, milk teeth, or deciduous teeth, are the first set of teeth that children develop. Typically, there are 20 baby teeth — 10 on the top and 10 on the bottom.

Though temporary, these teeth play a crucial role in shaping a child’s oral development and overall health.

Why Are Baby Teeth Important?

Many parents believe baby teeth don’t need much care since they eventually fall out. But here’s why they are important:

Chewing & Nutrition – Baby teeth help children chew food properly, ensuring proper digestion and nutrition.

Speech Development – They help in learning correct pronunciation and speech patterns.

Guiding Permanent Teeth – Baby teeth act as placeholders for permanent teeth, guiding them into proper alignment.

Healthy Jaw Development – They support facial and jawbone growth.

Confidence – A healthy smile gives children confidence in social interactions.

Timeline of Baby Teeth: Eruption & Shedding

Eruption (When They Come In)

6–10 months: First lower central incisors

8–12 months: Upper central incisors

9–16 months: Lateral incisors

13–19 months: First molars

16–23 months: Canines (cuspids)

23–33 months: Second molars

By age 3, most children will have their full set of 20 baby teeth.

Shedding (When They Fall Out)

Around 6 years, baby teeth begin falling out.

The process continues until 12–13 years, when most permanent teeth replace them

Common Problems with Baby Teeth

Tooth Decay (Cavities) – Caused by sugary foods, improper brushing, or bottle feeding at night.

Early Tooth Loss – Can cause misalignment of permanent teeth.

Thumb Sucking or Pacifier Habits – May lead to crooked teeth or bite problems.

Teething Discomfort – Babies may show irritability, drooling, or gum swelling.

White Spots or Enamel Defects – Early signs of cavities or weak enamel.

Caring for Baby Teeth

Healthy oral habits should start early. Here are some expert-recommended tips:

Clean gums before teeth erupt with a soft, damp cloth.

Use a baby toothbrush once the first tooth appears.

Fluoride toothpaste (pea-sized amount after age 3).

Limit sugary snacks and juices.

Encourage water between meals instead of milk or juice bottles.

Regular dental checkups every 6 months.

Mouthguards for kids who play sports.

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Did you know feeding habits can affect your baby’s smile?

Both breastfeeding and bottle-feeding can impact your child's dental health if proper oral care isn’t followed.

When babies fall asleep with milk in their mouth, sugars can stay on their teeth — leading to early childhood cavities, tooth loss, and even speech problems if left untreated.

✔ Avoid bottles at bedtime

✔ Clean gums regularly

✔ Use baby-safe toothbrushes

✔ Schedule that first dental visit by age ONE!

Protect your little one’s smile from day one.Visit Dr. Kammath’s Pediatric Dental Care – your trusted pediatric dentist in Trivandrum.

📍 Vanchiyoor, Trivandrum

📞 9447791312 | 📲 WhatsApp 9895554512

🌐 drkammathdentalcare.com

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