Watching your little one's smile transform from those adorable baby teeth to a full set of permanent teeth is an amazing journey! It's hard to believe how these milestones, from that first toothy grin to the day they show off their grown-up teeth, tell the story of their growth and all the little changes along the way.  

While those baby teeth seem to pop up overnight, the full set of adult teeth takes time. But no worries, keeping track of each new arrival is easy and fun with a handy permanent teeth chart. It's a great way to celebrate each new tooth, and although every kiddo's teeth have their own schedule, they usually follow a predictable path as they make their entrance.

Making Memories with A Tooth Chart

A teeth chart is not just a tool; it's a ticket to fun and bonding with your child! Grab a chart, we recommend using a printable version and get ready to add splashes of colour together as each new tooth erupts. Have your little one predict the next tooth's entrance, marking their guesses on separate charts. Should they hit the mark, celebrate with a fun outing or a special treat!

Types of Teeth

Transitioning from baby to adult teeth is quite the adventure, with kids starting with 20 primary teeth and potentially growing up to 32 permanent ones. This new set includes incisors, canines, premolars, and molars, each playing a unique role. The journey often begins with the incisors, right at the front, making their debut as early as six or seven years old.

Not far behind are the first molars, also known as the "six-year molars," which don't replace any baby teeth but add to the growing collection. As these new molars settle in, it's common for the upper central incisors to make way for their permanent replacements. This continues with the lateral incisors beside them, typically around age eight, adding to your child's smile.

The dental development doesn't stop there; the canines sharpen the lineup, followed by the first premolars, adding depth to the bite. As the teeth expand, the second premolars and the "12-year molars" join in by age 13, setting the stage for a full set of permanent teeth, ready to last a lifetime.

What About Wisdom Teeth?

The journey to a full set of permanent teeth often includes a final chapter: the wisdom teeth. Typically erupting in the late teens or early twenties, these four molars can bring the total count to 32. However, not everyone gets wisdom teeth; some individuals never develop them. For others, limited space in the mouth means these latecomers might need to be removed before they even get a chance to appear.  

Rest assured, your family dentist will closely monitor these potential arrivals and offer guidance on whether they should stay or go.

Caring For New Teeth

Ensuring the longevity of your children's permanent teeth relies on diligent dental care. Instilling excellent oral hygiene routines, like brushing twice daily, and committing to flossing, significantly diminishes the likelihood of tooth decay. Opting for preventative dental services such as sealants and fluoride treatments can also fight against cavities.

For more information or to discuss your dental health options with our child-friendly dentists, feel free to reach out to us at either of our Winnipeg locations in Garden City and St. Vital!  

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