One of the most common questions I get from parents about teeth is when teeth will erupt and fall out. It is important to remember that just like everything else about us–teeth are unique. The shape, size, and eruption pattern can vary from person to person. However, there is a range that is considered “normal.” I tried to find images of eruption patterns that were easy to understand. We will start with the primary teeth (baby teeth).
Monitoring eruption patterns is one of many reasons for an early first dental visit. Be sure to check out: Age of First Dental Visit and Why
This next image may be easier if you just want a rough idea of what teeth might be in at each age.
All baby teeth are generally erupted between age 2 and 3. These 20 teeth will be the only teeth in the mouth until around age 6. Around age 6, the front teeth will begin to get wiggly. At this same time, the permanent 1st molars will begin to erupt right behind the last baby tooth. This next image shows eruption patterns for permanent teeth. The yellow, orange, and green teeth replace baby teeth. The blue teeth do not replace baby teeth–instead, they grow in behind the last baby tooth.
It is important for these eruption patterns to be monitored so that an early referral to a specialist can be made, if warranted. As discussed in, Kids and Early Referrals to Specialists, it is important to see certain specialists in regards to abnormal growth/development/eruption patterns early in life for the best outcome.