What are milk teeth?

Milk teeth, also known as deciduous teeth, primary teeth, or baby teeth, are the first set of teeth that humans develop. They are temporary and are eventually replaced by permanent teeth as a child grows.

Characteristics of Milk Teeth:

1. Number: Children typically have 20 milk teeth, consisting of:

- 4 incisors (front teeth) in the upper and lower jaws

- 2 canines (pointed teeth) in the upper and lower jaws

- 4 premolars (back teeth) in the upper and lower jaws

2. Eruption: Milk teeth begin to erupt (appear in the mouth) at around 6-8 months of age. The order in which they erupt varies, but generally follows a pattern starting with the lower front teeth and progressing to the back molars. By age 3, most children have a full set of milk teeth.

3. Structure: Milk teeth have a similar structure to permanent teeth, but they are smaller and have thinner enamel. The pulp chamber (where the nerves and blood vessels are located) is also larger in milk teeth, making them more susceptible to cavities.

4. Function: Milk teeth serve important functions for children, such as:

- Allowing them to bite, chew, and speak properly

- Maintaining space in the jaws for permanent teeth to develop

5. Replacement: As a child grows, their jawbone develops, and the permanent teeth begin to form underneath the milk teeth. Around age 6-7, the first permanent molars erupt, followed by the incisors, canines, and premolars. The milk teeth gradually loosen and fall out to make way for the permanent teeth. This process usually continues until around age 12-13 when most people have a full set of permanent teeth.

Caring for milk teeth is essential for maintaining oral health and preventing problems that could affect the development of permanent teeth. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are recommended to keep milk teeth healthy and strong.