Pediatric Growth & DevelopmentFullerton, CA

When Will My Child’s Teeth Come In?

Each child is different. However, a child's primary teeth usually begin to erupt between six and 12 months; some children may experience their first tooth as early as three months old. According to Standford Medicine, most of a child's primary teeth will erupt when they are about 33 months— over two and a half years old. Female children tend to have their teeth developed before male children. By the time they are three, most children will have a set of 20 primary teeth.

The following are general guidelines for how the primary teeth erupt during pediatric growth and development:

1. The first tooth to come in is typically a middle front tooth in the lower jaw, known as the central incisor, and followed by the second central incisor in the lower jaw.
2. The four upper incisors will typically erupt next
3. Next, the four molars (back teeth) and remaining bottom two lateral incisors will begin to erupt
4. After this, the cuspids (pointed teeth) erupt
5. After the child is two, their second four molars will begin to appear

Pediatric growth and development varies from child to child. Do not be alarmed if a child's teeth do not follow this pattern. However, if teeth fail to erupt in a year after the standard time, check with Dr. Bhallar to ensure their teeth are developing properly.

Permanent and Wisdom Teeth

Through pediatric growth and development, permanent teeth will eventually replace a child's primary teeth. This process usually starts around age six when the first molars, or "six-year molars," begin to appear. The transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth can continue until the young patient's early teenage years, typically around the age of 12. By this point, the patient will have a total of 32 permanent teeth.

The last teeth, also known as the third molars or wisdom teeth, erupt between ages 17 and 21. While many people have these teeth removed, some will live their entire lives with all of their molars intact. Regardless of the stage of their development, it is important for infants, children, and teenagers to visit the dentist at least twice per year. Regular dental check-ups will help ensure proper dental health and address any concerns regarding the alignment and development of their teeth.

Common issues During Pediatric Growth & Development

Pediatric growth and development can be complex. There are several issues that parents and caregivers should be aware of as their children grow up. Identifying and treating these problems in their early stages is crucial to achieving healthy dental outcomes.

One of the most common concerns is tooth decay, which is highly prevalent among children. Factors contributing to tooth decay include poor oral hygiene and frequent consumption of sugary foods and drinks. However, one of the most effective ways to prevent and manage these issues is through regular dental visits and cleanings. These visits are not only for restorative treatment but also for preventive care and to detect the signs of tooth decay in its early stages.

Another significant issue in pediatric growth and development is malocclusion, or teeth and jaw misalignment. Malocclusion can lead to difficulties chewing, speaking, and maintaining oral hygiene. Genetic factors, thumb-sucking, and prolonged use of pacifiers and sippy cups are common causes of malocclusion.

Several other dental problems can affect children as they grow up. These include:

• Premature tooth loss: Premature loss of primary teeth due to decay or trauma can disrupt the natural alignment of permanent teeth.
• Delayed tooth eruption: When teeth may not emerge at the expected times, leading to concerns about possible underlying health issues or delays in development.
• Enamel hypoplasia:This condition involves underdeveloped tooth enamel, which makes teeth more prone to decay and sensitivity.
• Gingivitis:Inflammation of the gums, often due to poor oral hygiene, can progress to more severe periodontal diseases if not addressed as soon as possible.
• Dental trauma:Accidents and injuries can cause chipped or fractured teeth, requiring immediate attention to prevent further damage or infection.

Addressing these common issues through preventive care, regular dental check-ups, and early treatment can promote healthier pediatric growth and development.

A Pediatric Dentist’s Role in A Child’s Growth & Development

Pediatric dentists play an important role in ensuring children's growth and development. Regular dental check-ups help identify and address dental issues such as cavities, misaligned teeth, and gum diseases before they become severe problems. Along with going over proper oral hygiene techniques, we also provide preventive treatments to help protect the young patient's teeth from disease and decay.

One such treatment involves pediatric airway dentistry, which helps young patients breathe properly through their nose. Children who chronically breathe through their mouth or snore can be more at risk for health and developmental issues. Early diagnosis and treatment, such as guided therapy and orthodontic devices, can optimize the child's ability to breathe while protecting their jaw development and oral health.

Healthy teeth and gums are essential for proper chewing and speech development, as they directly impact a child's nutrition and communication skills. As our patients grow up, we will monitor the growth of their jaws and the development of their teeth to help correct any abnormalities early on. Our team provides a dental experince that encourages children to have a positive relationship with going to the dentist and prioritize their oral health.