Children's teeth begin forming before birth. By 6 months, the lower central incisors, followed closely by the upper central incisors, are normally the first primary, or baby teeth to erupt through the gums. Although all 20 primary teeth ususally appear by age 3, the pace and order of their eruption varies.
Oral care should begin soon after baby's birth. Gums should be cleaned after each feeding. Wipe gums with a clean, damp cloth or gauze pad. You can begin brushing your child's teeth as soon as they appear.
To prevent nursing bottle mouth, if you must give your baby a bottle at nap or bed time, fill it with plain water--not milk, formula or juice.
Permanent teeth begin appearing around age 6, starting with the first molars and lower central incisors. This process continues until approximately age 21.
Adults have 28 permanent teeth, or up to 32 including the third molars (or wisdom teeth).
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