Wednesday, February 13, 2008

Child Dental Care

Child Dental Care

When infants are born, almost all of their primary or baby teeth already have formed although they still are hidden in the gums. They typically begin to erupt or cut through the gums when the baby is about 6 months old. Of course, your baby may begin teething a little bit earlier or a little later than this. That's okay. All children develop at their own pace and your 1-year-old may have a different number of teeth than your neighbor's 1-year-old child.

Usually the first baby teeth to erupt are the two bottom front teeth. Next come the top four front teeth. From here, teeth slowly begin to fill the mouth, usually two at a time on either side of the jaw. Your child should have all 20 primary teeth by the time he or she is 36 months old.

Your child's primary teeth typically will have spaces between them. Since there is a difference between the size of the permanent and primary teeth, these spaces help ensure there will be enough room for adult teeth. Spaces also make it easier to clean between your child's teeth.

Thanks to Colgate for this information.

Child Dental Care