At what age do children start getting permanent (secondary) teeth?

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Last updated: March 11, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Research

Children typically start getting their permanent teeth around the age of 6, as indicated by the most recent study 1. The first permanent teeth to emerge are usually the lower central incisors, as reported in the study published in 2012 2. This begins a gradual process where baby teeth fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth, continuing until approximately age 12-13 when most children have all their permanent teeth except wisdom teeth. Some key points to consider include:

  • The timing of tooth eruption follows a genetic pattern but can be influenced by factors such as nutrition, overall health, and even the timing of when baby teeth were lost.
  • Regular dental check-ups during this period are important to monitor the process and address any potential alignment issues early.
  • The development of permanent teeth is related to physical growth, and some studies have shown that the rate of transition from deciduous to permanent teeth has increased over the past 20 years 1.
  • Factors such as gender, urban vs. suburban residence, and geographic location can also influence the timing of permanent tooth emergence, as reported in the study published in 2020 1. However, the most important consideration is the age at which children start getting their permanent teeth, which is around 6 years old, as supported by the most recent and highest-quality study 1.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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