Baby teeth (also called primary teeth) may be small and temporary, but they play a big role in your child’s health and development. Understanding what they do, and why looking after them matters, helps you give your child the best possible start. Here is a plain-English guide for parents.
When do baby teeth come through?
Baby teeth begin forming before your child is even born. They can appear as early as three to four months of age, but most commonly start pushing through the gums between six and twelve months. The timing and order vary from child to child, and all 20 baby teeth have usually come through by around age three.
What do baby teeth actually do?
Baby teeth do far more than most people realise. They:
- help your child chew food properly
- help your child learn to speak clearly
- hold space in the jaw for the adult teeth developing underneath
- support the healthy growth of your child’s face and jaws
- help set up the habits for a lifetime of good oral health
Are baby teeth really that important if they fall out anyway?
It is a fair question, and the answer is yes. Because baby teeth guide the adult teeth into place and help your child eat, speak and smile, looking after them matters. Children who develop decay in their baby teeth are also more likely to have problems with their adult teeth, so healthy baby teeth help set the direction for the rest of your child’s life. It can be tempting to skip brushing when a toddler is tired and upset, or to let a picky eater snack on a favourite treat, but over time these moments can add up to cavities.
Tooth decay in children
Just like adult teeth, baby teeth can develop cavities. Dental decay is the most common chronic disease of childhood, and because baby teeth are smaller, decay can progress more quickly than in adult teeth. Young children often cannot put pain into words, so the first sign of a problem may be a change in their behaviour rather than a complaint of a sore tooth. Left untreated for long enough, decay can lead to infection, so it is always worth having any concerns checked early.
Australian children’s oral health statistics show why prevention matters. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), more than half of all six-year-olds have experienced tooth decay in their baby teeth, nearly half of all 12-year-olds have some tooth decay, and thousands of children under 10 are treated under general anaesthetic for dental conditions each year.
What happens if a baby tooth is lost too early?
Baby teeth act as place holders for the adult teeth. They fall out in a particular pattern that helps guide the adult teeth into the best position. If a baby tooth is lost too early (for example because of decay), neighbouring teeth can drift into the gap and block the adult tooth from coming through properly. This can lead to the need for a space maintainer, or orthodontic treatment down the track, which is another good reason to look after baby teeth and treat problems early.
When should my child first see a dentist?
Dental experts recommend that a child’s first dental check-up happens about six months after their first tooth appears, or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. Early visits help your child get comfortable, let us spot any issues sooner, and give you tailored advice on building healthy habits. Our guide to your child’s first dental visit explains what to expect.
Frequently asked questions
When do babies get their first teeth?
Most babies get their first tooth between six and twelve months of age, though some appear a little earlier. All 20 baby teeth have usually come through by around age three.
Why are baby teeth important if they just fall out?
Baby teeth help your child chew and speak, support jaw development, and hold space for the adult teeth. Decay in baby teeth can be painful and can affect the adult teeth, so caring for them is well worth it.
Can baby teeth get cavities?
Yes. Baby teeth can develop cavities just like adult teeth, and because they are smaller, decay can progress more quickly. Regular check-ups and good daily habits are the best protection.
What happens if my child loses a baby tooth too early?
Losing a baby tooth too early can allow nearby teeth to drift and block the adult tooth from coming through in the right place, which can sometimes lead to a need for a space maintainer or orthodontic treatment later. It is best to have any early tooth loss checked.
When should my child have their first dental visit?
Around six months after the first tooth appears, or by their first birthday. Early visits help your child feel comfortable and let us keep their teeth on track.
We are here to help
Healthy baby teeth are the foundation for a healthy adult smile. If your child is due for a check-up or you have questions about their teeth, please contact our friendly team. We are always happy to help.