Changing teeth in children

Changing teeth is inextricably linked to a child’s growing up. It is important to be well informed about your child’s dental developments. This way you can conclude in a timely manner whether the development of children’s teeth shows any abnormalities. In addition, you can also do a lot yourself to help your child through the switching process as best as possible.

Item classification

• Why change teeth?
• When to change teeth?
• What deviations can arise during and after the change?
• How can you promote tooth and molar replacement in children?

Why change teeth?

Changing teeth in children is part of growing up. The skull of children has a completely different shape than that of adults. The skull of children is of course also much smaller than that of adults. This means that there is less room for molars and teeth. It is therefore logical that as a child’s skull grows, a change in children’s teeth is necessary to use the jaws efficiently and effectively to grind food. For this reason, the teeth and molars associated with baby teeth are slowly being replaced by permanent adult teeth.

When to change teeth?

When teeth are replaced depends on the person and the situation. In addition, there is no specific age at which a child will start changing his or her teeth. However, general phases can be indicated in the development of permanent teeth at the expense of temporary baby teeth.

Phase 1: The first transition phase

The first changing phase takes place in children between the ages of 6 and 8. In this phase, the first molar forms in the lower and upper jaws of the permanent teeth behind the existing baby molars. In this first changing phase, the front incisors of the adult teeth are also formed in both the lower and upper jaw.

Phase 2: The rest phase

The resting phase is an important phase in the development of teeth in children. This resting phase takes place in children between the ages of 9 and 10. Although no teeth or molars are added to the teeth, a lot of change can be observed with regard to jaw structure and the formation of roots of the teeth of the permanent teeth. . No new teeth emerge during the resting phase, but many preparations are made for the next changing phase.

Phase 3: The second transition phase

The second changing phase takes place in children between the ages of 10 and 14. During this phase, all other baby teeth and baby molars are replaced by permanent teeth. A second large molar also forms in the upper jaw and lower jaw. This tooth is not a wisdom tooth. Wisdom teeth only develop between the ages of 18 and 24.

What deviations can arise during and after the change?

The abnormalities that can arise when changing molars and teeth are numerous, but usually these abnormalities are not serious and will disappear on their own. If this is not the case, contact the dentist or dental hygienist. Of course, these can always help you and your child. Common deviations are:

• Starting very late with changing teeth and molars.
• New teeth emerge, but the baby tooth that is being replaced does not fall out.
• Lots of pain for a long time during the transition period.
• The left and right jaw halves do not develop synchronously.

How can you promote tooth and molar replacement in children?

There are a lot of things you can do to promote the transition process of your child or children. If you follow the tips below carefully, you can prevent problems when changing as much as possible.

Tip 1: Nutrition

Children’s nutrition has a major influence on the development of their teeth. A lot of food creates plaque that is difficult to remove with the daily brushing routine. It is therefore important not to let children consume too much sugary food and drinks. In addition, it is advisable to limit the number of eating moments to 7 per day. This means 3 meals and a maximum of 4 snacks. Finally, it is wise to encourage your child or children to drink (tap) water.

Tip 2: Brushing

The second tip may speak for itself, but good brushing remains one of the most important determinants for the successful development of permanent teeth. Electric brushing is recommended for all teeth, but for very small children it is wise to use a toothbrush with softer bristles. Brush at least twice a day for optimal results. If your child wants to brush themselves, it is important that you regularly check whether the teeth have actually been brushed properly. In some cases, brushing children’s teeth itself is necessary. Make sure that a lot of attention is always paid to brushing the erupting teeth.

Tip 3: Thumb sucking

Many children have the habit of sucking a pacifier or thumb. This thumb sucking is not conducive to the development of the central incisors. It is therefore important that you stop your child from thumb sucking before the central incisors emerge. You can do this by rewarding your child if he or she has not sucked their thumb for a while or distract your child by putting something in their hands. However, you know best what works for your child. If you are unable to do so, consult your dentist.

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