Pediatric Tooth Chart

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A Guide to Your Child’s Smile

Understanding dental milestones from the first baby tooth to a full set of permanent teeth is key to lifelong oral health.

The First Smile: Primary (Baby) Teeth

A child’s first set includes 20 teeth that are essential for chewing, speech, and guiding the permanent teeth into place. This interactive chart shows their names and when to expect them.

Click on a tooth!

Primary Teeth Development Timeline

This timeline visualizes the typical age ranges for the eruption and shedding of primary teeth, a process spanning from infancy to early adolescence.

Why Baby Teeth Are So Important

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Chewing & Nutrition

Healthy teeth allow for proper chewing, supporting good nutrition and physical growth.

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Speech Development

Teeth are crucial for forming sounds and developing clear speech patterns.

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Space Maintenance

They hold space in the jaw, guiding permanent teeth to erupt in the correct position.

The Risk of Early Tooth Loss

Losing a baby tooth too early can cause adjacent teeth to drift, blocking the path for the permanent tooth and often leading to crowded, misaligned teeth that require orthodontic treatment later.

The Lifelong Set: Permanent Teeth

The full adult set contains 32 teeth, including premolars which are absent in the primary set. This process begins around age 6 and can continue into the early 20s.

Click on a tooth!

Permanent Teeth Eruption Timeline

From the “six-year molars” to the wisdom teeth, this chart shows the typical age range for the arrival of each permanent tooth.

A Tale of Two Teeth: Primary vs. Permanent

Anatomical Differences

Primary Tooth

Permanent Tooth

Enamel: Thinner on primary teeth.

Dentin: Thinner on primary teeth.

Pulp: Proportionally larger in primary teeth.

Clinical Implications

The thinner enamel and larger pulp of primary teeth mean that decay can progress to the nerve much faster. This makes prompt dental care for cavities in baby teeth extremely important.

Common Pediatric Dental Concerns

Prevalence of Tooth Decay

Dental caries (cavities) are one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood. Early prevention is key.

Gingivitis (Gum Disease)

Caused by plaque buildup. Look for swollen, red, or bleeding gums. Preventable with good brushing and flossing.

Malocclusion (Misaligned Teeth)

Can be genetic or caused by habits like thumb sucking. Early orthodontic evaluation can help.

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Common in children, especially during sleep. Often outgrown, but can cause wear. Mention it to your dentist.

Start Early for a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child’s first dental visit by their first birthday, or within six months after the first tooth erupts.

Picture of Dr. Mary G. Trice

Mary – Queens Pediatric Dental Resource Manager. I’m a dental health researcher and parent advocate based in Queens, NY. After struggling to find reliable pediatric dental information during my own child’s dental emergency, I created this resource to help other Queens families navigate their children’s oral health needs.

I curate evidence-based information from leading pediatric dental organizations, peer-reviewed research, and trusted dental health experts. While I’m not a dentist, I’m committed to providing accurate, practical guidance that helps parents make informed decisions.

All content is thoroughly researched and includes proper medical disclaimers directing families to consult qualified pediatric dentists for their children’s specific needs.