Children have twenty primary or "baby" teeth. The first incisors come in at between six and twelve months. The full set of baby teeth, including the molars, are usually present by two to three years of age. Parents may notice their child become irritable and fussy when a tooth is erupting. This is commonly known as "teething pain" and may be accompanied by drooling or even a slight fever. It is very important to take good care of primary teeth. The enamel of a baby tooth may not be as durable as the enamel of a permanent tooth. Some people are not aware that primary teeth have nerves just like adult teeth. In fact, the nerve of a primary tooth is quite large and close to the surface. That is why a local anesthetic is required when filling a cavity in a baby tooth. In addition to their biting and chewing function, the primary teeth hold the space for the developing permanent teeth. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely, the adjacent teeth may drift and space for the new adult tooth may be lost. A "space maintainer" is sometimes made for a lost baby tooth so neighboring teeth do not move. Baby teeth need to be checked by a dentist regularly so that cavities can be caught at their earliest stage. Fluoride treatments and sealants are preventive measures that can prevent decay in the primary teeth. When it is time for the permanent tooth to come in, the baby tooth will loosen and be shed. The first adult teeth erupt at about six or seven years of age. By the age of ten or twelve, all of the baby teeth are replaced by the adult teeth. Presented in the interest of promoting a better dental health environment from the office of" Frank Soltiz, DDS 13367 Broadway Alden, New York 14004 937-7812