Milky teeth, also known as baby teeth, primary teeth, or deciduous teeth, are your first set of teeth.
These teeth begin developing even before birth, during the embryonic stage. Typically, they start to erupt through the gums around six months after birth, continuing to emerge until a child is about 2-3 years old. There are usually 20 milky teeth in total – 10 in the upper jaw and 10 in the lower jaw.
Here's a breakdown of what you need to know about these temporary teeth:
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Other Names: As mentioned, they're also called baby teeth, primary teeth, and deciduous teeth. The term "deciduous" comes from the Latin word meaning "falling off," referring to their eventual shedding.
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Development: The formation of milky teeth starts in the womb.
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Eruption: The process of these teeth appearing through the gums usually begins around 6 months of age.
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Number: Children typically have 20 milky teeth.
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Function: Milky teeth play crucial roles in:
- Eating: They allow babies and toddlers to chew and eat solid foods.
- Speech Development: They help children learn to pronounce words correctly.
- Guiding Permanent Teeth: They hold space in the jaws for the permanent teeth and guide them into their correct positions.
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Shedding: These teeth eventually become loose and fall out, typically starting around age 6 and continuing until around age 12. This makes way for the permanent teeth to erupt.
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Importance of Care: Even though they are temporary, it's crucial to take care of milky teeth. Cavities and other dental problems in baby teeth can affect the health and development of permanent teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are important.
In summary, milky teeth are the first set of teeth that children develop, playing vital roles in eating, speech, and guiding permanent teeth. Proper care is essential for their health and the future health of permanent teeth.
