Big Kid Smiles

Excerpt from "Your Child's Teeth: Helpful Tips for Parents and Caregivers", by the American Dental Association:

As children develop, their jaws and faces continue to change. The transition from baby teeth to adult teeth is gradual. By the time they reach adulthood, most children will progress from their 20 primary teeth to 32 permenant (adult) teeth. All the while, the jaw gradually expands to make room for the additional 12 teeth.

At about age six, maybe earlier, children begin to shed (lose) their front teeth on top and bottom. During the next six or so years, permanent teeth will gradually replace the primary teeth.

The first permanent molars usually erupt between ages five and six. For that reason, they are often called the six-year molars. They are among the “extra” permanent teeth in that they don’t replace an existing baby tooth. These important adult teeth are often mistaken for baby teeth. However, they are permanent and must be cared for properly if they are to last throughout the child’s lifetime. The six-year molars are especially important because they help determine the shape of the lower face. They also affect the position and health of other permanent teeth.