The milk teethalso known as temporary teeth, play an essential role in children's development, particularly in their growth and eating habits. Knowledge of the anatomy and development of milk teeth is important for lifelong oral health.

Anatomy of deciduous teeth

It's important to know the different parts of the teeth to better understand how they work and what to look out for when brushing them. Milk teeth consist mainly of :

• The crown: this is the visible part that emerges from the gum.
• The root: buried in the gum, it fixes the tooth in the alveolar bone.
• Enamel: This is the outer layer of the tooth, varying in color from white to gray or even yellow, which protects the tooth from acid attack by food and bacteria.
• Dentin: the tissue beneath the enamel that supports it and protects the pulp.
• The pulp: This is the central part of the tooth, containing nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue. It is sensitive to extreme temperatures and bacterial attack.

The development of milk teeth

The different stages of development

Temporary teeth grow in several stages:

1. Formation: Tooth buds begin to form in the fetal jaw as early as the 6th week of pregnancy.
2. Tooth eruption: Baby's first milk teeth generally appear around 6 months of age, although this period may vary for each child.
3. Full growth: A child will normally have developed all 20 milk teeth by the age of 2? to 3.
4. Falling out: Milk teeth gradually give way to permanent teeth between the ages of around 6 and 12.

Tooth types

Children have different types of teeth:

• Incisors: These are the eight front teeth on the upper and lower jaws, used for cutting food.
• Canines: There are four canines, one on each side of the incisors, and they are used to tear food.
• Molars: Eight teeth in the back of the mouth, used to crush food before swallowing.

Maintaining good oral health

To prevent dental problems and ensure proper development of permanent teeth, here are a few tips for maintaining optimal oral hygiene:

• Brushing: Make sure your child brushes his teeth at least twice a day. For about two minutes each, using a toothpaste suitable for children.
• Check-ups at the dentist: Consult a pediatric dentist regularly for dental check-ups and treatment if necessary.
• Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium to promote healthy teeth. Avoid sugary foods and fizzy drinks wherever possible.
• Use fluoride: To strengthen enamel and reduce the risk of cavities, use toothpaste containing fluoride.
• Preventive care: Your dentist may recommend that you seal your grooves and apply fluoride varnish to protect your teeth against cavities.

Common anomalies in children

Despite good oral hygiene, certain problems can occur in children:

• Delayed eruption: Some babies or young children may not see their teeth appear on the usual schedule. It's important to note, however, that this is not usually a cause for concern.
• Premature tooth loss: If a baby tooth falls out too soon due to impact or infection, it can cause discomfort and affect the disposition of the permanent teeth.
• Dental fractures: Children's teeth are more fragile than adults'. They can break in the event of a fall or accident. Careful and prompt follow-up with a dentist is essential in the event of a fracture.
• Cavities: Milk teeth are also susceptible to cavities. So it's crucial to maintain good oral hygiene from an early age.