Teeth change in children – from milk teeth to permanent teeth

The change of teeth usually takes place between the ages of 6 and 12. During this time, the bit is made up of still existing milk teeth and new permanent teeth. Between the ages of 16 and 24, the wisdom teeth break through the gums. In this article we would like to explain how this change takes place and which teeth break through and when.

Why is there a tooth change?

The change of teeth tries to adjust the relationship between jaw size and tooth size as well as the number of teeth during a person’s strongest growth phase. As the jaw changes during this growth phase, the balanced relationship is lost, which is thus restored. The milk teeth fall out in different phases of the tooth change and the new teeth appear.

3 phases of tooth change

The change of teeth is divided into three phases, between which the bit always comes to rest. The functions of the teeth, such as eating and speaking, should therefore be guaranteed throughout. Before the permanent teeth break, they are already in the jaw. If the milk teeth fall out, the permanent teeth can move up immediately. Below we explain which teeth fail when.

The first phase

The front molars make a start under the permanent teeth and often appear before the first milk tooth fails. These usually break through at the age of 6 and are located far back in the oral cavity. Since there was no milk tooth before and therefore no tooth has to fall out, children and parents often do not even notice that it has come. In addition, the milk teeth of the front incisors fall out and are affected by the "new" Teeth replaced.

The second phase

In the second phase, around the age of nine, the molars, canines and second large molars erupt. This phase lasts approximately until the age of 12.

The third phase

Since not everyone gets wisdom teeth, they do not count towards a person’s regular dentition. They serve as an additional reinforcement of the bit and usually come after the age of 17. Often, however, there is not enough space in the jaw to accommodate wisdom teeth or other problems can occur, which is why they are often removed as a precaution.

When does which tooth come??

Teeth (each for upper- & Mandible)

Old tooth loss & Start changing teeth

Permanent teeth completely visible

16 to 25 years or later

The tooth change causes pain?

During the change of teeth, the roots of the milk teeth slowly dissolve until the milk teeth fall out. The resulting gaps in the dentition are filled with permanent teeth within a few weeks. Changing teeth is normally not painful. However, if a tooth needs something until it fails, it can become a little uncomfortable.

What problems and challenges can arise when changing teeth?

During the tooth change phase, there can be various problems with the permanent teeth. On the one hand, milk teeth that are lost too early can lead to misalignments and an early loss of the incisors can lead to speech development disorders. With wisdom teeth, tooth eruption can be difficult due to the gums becoming inflamed and causing pain. If milk teeth do not want to fall out, a visit to the dentist is advisable. An x-ray then looks to see whether the permanent teeth have already been created and whether the root of the milk tooth is still there or not. If the root is still behind the tooth, it can block the change of teeth. If the permanent teeth grow crooked or there are tooth abnormalities or if there are yellowish or brown spots on the permanent teeth, a dentist should be contacted.

What can parents do for a problem-free tooth change??

In order to ensure a problem-free tooth change for your child, it is advisable to carry out regular check-ups during tooth change. Because only if potential complications are identified early can negative consequences for the permanent teeth be avoided. In addition, the risk of tooth decay and gingivitis should be prevented by good dental hygiene. However, this also applies to correct dental care before and after changing teeth. If you suspect problems, you should come directly to our practice.

Do you have any further questions or are you looking for a dentist to treat your child? Please contact us and make an appointment. We look forward to you!

Mysterious illness: when children’s teeth suddenly crumble

Mysterious illness When children’s teeth suddenly crumble Clearly visible here: whitish-yellow spots on the upper incisors. You are affected by an MIH….
Milk teeth caries in young children (photo) and their causes

What is important to know about tooth decay in young children In young children, tooth decay is usually much faster than in adults, and the destruction…
Teeth development, eruption of teeth, milk teeth, children’s teeth

Zahnarzt-Zahnbehandlung.com Children’s teeth Article Index Children’s teeth The dentition development in children can be very different, as can tooth…
Treatment of caries of milk teeth in children

Caries of milk teeth in children and their treatment: what parents need to know Baby teeth with caries in children need to be healed. Some parents’…