The eruption of baby teeth begins around the sixth month of life and is usually completed between the ages of two and two and a half. At that point, a child has 10 teeth in each jaw (20 in total).

The first permanent tooth most commonly erupts around the age of six. These are the so-called “first molars” (also known as the “six-year molars”), and they do not replace any baby tooth. They emerge behind the baby molars, which is why parents sometimes don’t even notice that a new tooth has appeared.

This is precisely why it is important for parents to pay special attention to oral hygiene during this period, in order to protect these teeth (as well as all others) from decay. The “six-year molars” are particularly sensitive because they are located in an area that is harder to brush, and children are still learning how to maintain proper oral hygiene at this age.

The timing of eruption can vary from child to child. However, if the first permanent tooth is delayed significantly beyond what is considered typical, a dental and, if needed, radiological examination is recommended to determine whether there is an anatomical or developmental issue (such as a missing tooth bud, an extra tooth, cyst, etc.).