Primary (baby) teeth

Upper and lower sets of primary (baby) and secondary (permanent) teeth, showing cuspids, bicuspids, incisors, molars, and wisdom teeth

An infant's first teeth are called baby teeth or primary teeth. They usually start to come in (erupt) between 6 months and 12 months of age. A total of 20 primary teeth erupt by about 3 years of age. Children begin to lose their primary teeth between the ages of 6 and 11 years. They are replaced by secondary, or permanent, teeth.

Current as of: May 4, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.