Structure of Children’s Teeth:
Children’s teeth, also known as primary teeth or baby teeth, play a vital role in their development.
Here are the key points:
Primary Teeth:
Number: Children typically have 20 primary teeth, with 10 in the upper jaw and 10 in the lower jaw.
Types: These include incisors, canines, and molars.
Eruption Timeline: Primary teeth usually start to appear around 6 months of age and continue to emerge until about 3 years old.
Permanent Teeth:
Number: Adults have 32 permanent teeth, including wisdom teeth.
Replacement: Primary teeth begin to fall out around age 6, making way for permanent teeth, which continue to emerge until the late teens or early twenties.
Physiology of Children’s Teeth
Enamel: The outermost layer of the tooth, which is thinner in primary teeth compared to permanent teeth, making them more susceptible to decay.
Dentin: The layer beneath the enamel, which is softer and more sensitive in primary teeth.
Pulp: The innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels, which is larger in proportion to the tooth in children, making them more sensitive to pain and temperature changes.
Appearance of Children’s Teeth
Color: Primary teeth are usually whiter than permanent teeth.
Size and Shape: They are smaller and have a more rounded shape compared to permanent teeth.
Spacing: There is often more spacing between primary teeth to allow room for the larger permanent teeth to come in.
Teething can be a challenging time for both children and parents. While teething itself doesn’t cause serious illness, it can lead to some discomfort and mild symptoms. Here are some common symptoms and considerations:
Common Symptoms During Teething
- Sore and Red Gums: The gums may appear swollen and red where the tooth is emerging.
- Increased Drooling: Babies tend to drool more during teething.
- Chewing and Gnawing: Babies often chew on objects to relieve gum discomfort.
- Irritability: Some babies may become more irritable or fussy.
- Mild Temperature: A slight increase in body temperature is possible, but it should not be a high fever.
Misconceptions About Teething
- Fever: Teething does not cause high fever (38°C or higher). If your child has a high fever, it is likely due to another cause.
- Diarrhea: There is no strong evidence linking teething to diarrhea.
- Serious Illness: Teething should not cause serious illness.
Managing Teething Discomfort
- Teething Rings: Cooled teething rings can help soothe sore gums.
- Gum Massage: Gently massaging the gums with a clean finger can provide relief.
- Teething Gels: Some over-the-counter teething gels can be used, but it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before using them.
If you notice any severe symptoms or if your child seems unusually unwell, it’s always a good idea to seek medical advice to ensure there are no underlying issues.
Pure Care with Homeopathy 