At What Age Do Teeth Change?
Teeth change throughout life, beginning in early childhood and continuing into adulthood. The most significant changes occur during two main phases:
- Around age 6: Deciduous teeth (baby teeth) begin to loosen and fall out. This process, known as exfoliation, makes way for the eruption of permanent teeth. Better Health Channel and Mayo Clinic confirm this timeframe. The average child has 20 baby teeth by age 3.
- Ages 6-7 and beyond: This is the period where the transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth primarily happens. The timing varies slightly between children. By about age 21, most individuals have their full complement of 32 permanent teeth, including wisdom teeth. Designer For Smiles and Mouth Healthy support this.
Changes in Adult Teeth with Age
As we age, further changes occur:
- Dentin Thickening: The dentin, the layer beneath the enamel, thickens, potentially leading to a yellowish appearance as it shows through the enamel, which can thin and crack. Harvard Health and WebMD describe this process.
- Tooth Shifting: Teeth can shift position over time due to various factors including bone loss, gum recession, and changes in the jaw. Hodge Orthodontics, WGM Orthodontics, and Rancho San Diego Dental highlight this. Often, the bottom two front teeth are the first to move.
The timing of these changes varies slightly from person to person, but the general pattern remains consistent. Maintaining good oral hygiene throughout life is crucial to minimize negative impacts.
