There are 20 baby teeth, also called primary teeth, in humans. Baby teeth erupt in the same order in most people, although there can be variations. They come in while the child is an infant or toddler to help him chew and communicate. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that the child see a dentist within six months of the eruption of his first tooth or by his first birthday. Baby teeth are shed later in childhood and replaced with permanent teeth. Once all permanent teeth have erupted, there are 32 teeth in the human mouth.
Central Incisors
Central incisors are the four teeth located directly in the front center of the mouth--two on the top and two on the bottom. The central incisors are usually the first teeth to erupt in a baby's mouth. Incisors are used to bite into food. This occurs between 8 to 12 months of age. The baby will likely be fussy while his teeth are coming in. The child loses the central incisors between 6 and 7 years of age.
Lateral Incisors
Lateral incisors are the second set of teeth to erupt. These erupt between the ages of 9 to 13 months. Lateral incisors come in next to the central incisors, for a total of four lateral incisors. These are shed between the ages of 7 and 8.
Canines (Cuspids)
Canine teeth, also called cuspids, are pointy teeth that resemble fangs. They are useful for biting and tearing food. These erupt next to the lateral incisors. There are four canine teeth in the mouth. They come in between 17 and 23 months of age and shed between 9 and 12 years old.
First Molars
Molars are used to chew food. The first molars erupt between the ages of 14 and 18 months. There are four first molars, which come in behind the canine teeth. First molars are shed between the ages of 9 and 11.
Second Molars
Second molars, often called "Two year old molars," erupt between the ages of 23 and 31 months. These are located directly behind the first molars. Like the first molars, there will be a total of four second molars. Children usually lose these molars between the ages of 10 and 12.
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