Permanent Teeth Grow According to a Specific Timeline
How long does it take for all 32 permanent teeth to emerge from the gums? This process takes approximately fifteen years from start to finish. Permanent teeth grow according to a specific timeline that spans childhood up to adulthood, from the age of six to the age of twenty-one. Generally, sixteen teeth develop in each jaw (lower and upper) during this time, creating a fully functional mouth.
Below we look at how long it takes for all 32 permanent teeth to emerge from the gums.
Up To 6 Years Old
The First Permanent Teeth to Grow
As the baby’s (primary) teeth begin to fall out, the permanent teeth grow to replace them. The first molars often referred to as the six-year, begin to emerge at six. These teeth don’t replace any baby teeth. However, these four teeth are essential to the rest of the teeth since they help determine the positioning and health of all teeth that follow them.
Age 6 to 13
24 Permanent Teeth Grow
Over the next seven years of a child’s life, 24 more permanent teeth emerge from the gums. They follow in a specific order, with upper teeth generally coming in shortly after the teeth on the lower jaw. These 24 teeth include 4 central incisors, 4 lateral incisors, 8 premolars, 4 canines, and 4 more molars.
Age 7 to 21
4 More Teeth Grow
The final permanent growth is between the ages of 17 and 21. They are commonly referred to as wisdom teeth or the third molars. These teeth are located in the back of the mouth. There are two on the upper jaw and two on the lower jaw. Sometimes this area is crowded, so these molars do not come in all the way. When this happens, the wisdom teeth are often extracted to avoid complications such as crowding of the other teeth and infection.
The Importance of Proper Dental Care While Permanent Teeth Grow and Break through the Gums
As permanent teeth grow, it is crucial to care for them properly by brushing away food debris and plaque. This will help prevent tooth decay, even if the teeth have not yet fully come in.
To maintain the best dental care, schedule a consultation with Dr. Paul Feldman at Suburban Essex Dental, a recipient of “Top Dentists” for the past ten years and still going strong.
