Primary Teeth (Baby Teeth)

Primary teeth, also known as “baby teeth” or “deciduous teeth”, begin forming beneath the gums during the second trimester of pregnancy. They typically start to emerge above the gums between six months and one year after birth. By preschool age, most children have a complete set of 20 primary teeth, including four molars on each arch.

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One of the most common misconceptions is that baby teeth are unimportant to a child’s future oral health. In reality, their role is vital. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends scheduling a “baby checkup” with a pediatric dentist at six months of age to ensure proper care and development.

What Are the Functions of Primary Teeth?

The eruption of primary teeth can sometimes be painful. To soothe tender gums, pediatric dentists often suggest teething rings, cool wet gauze pads, or clean fingers. While most children have their full set by age three, teeth generally emerge gradually, beginning with the front teeth.

Key Functions of Primary Teeth:

  • Speech production and development: Properly positioned baby teeth help children pronounce syllables correctly, guiding the tongue and supporting clear speech — a crucial aspect of social, emotional, and cognitive growth.
  • Eating and nutrition: Healthy primary teeth allow children to chew effectively, which supports good dietary habits and prevents malnutrition or underweight conditions often linked to decayed or missing teeth.
  • Self-confidence: A healthy smile reduces the risk of bad breath, encourages positive interactions, and boosts a child’s confidence in social settings.
  • Straighter smiles: Baby teeth act as natural “spacers” for developing adult teeth. When lost too early, nearby teeth may shift into the gaps, leading to crowding or misalignment. Pediatric dentists may recommend space maintainers to prevent these issues.
  • Excellent oral health: Decayed baby teeth can trigger childhood periodontal disease, which damages gums, ligaments, and even bone. This condition can cause premature tooth loss and complicate the eruption of permanent teeth. Daily oral care — such as wiping infant gums with a clean, damp cloth — helps prevent these problems.

If you have questions or concerns about your child’s primary teeth, please contact your pediatric dentist.