What age are baby teeth (milk teeth) lost?

Baby teeth, also known as primary or deciduous teeth, typically begin to get loose and fall out to make way for permanent teeth at different ages. Here's a general timeline:

1. Loosening of Baby Teeth

: Baby teeth usually start to become loose and fall out around the age of 6 years, but this can vary. They become loose because the permanent teeth underneath start to push against the roots of the baby teeth, causing them to resorb or dissolve. This process gradually weakens the baby teeth until they are loose enough to fall out.

2. Order of Tooth Loss and Replacement:

Typically, the two bottom front teeth are the first to go, followed by the top front teeth. The others follow over the next several years. By age 12 or 13, most children have lost all of their baby teeth, and their permanent teeth have taken their place.

3. Differences in Eruption of Adult Teeth:

The timing of when adult teeth come in can vary. Generally, the first adult teeth to erupt are the first molars (around 6 years of age), even before any baby teeth are lost. The last are usually the wisdom teeth, which can appear anywhere from late adolescence to early adulthood. Sometimes, not all adults have wisdom teeth, or these teeth can be impacted, meaning they don't fully erupt.

4. Variations;

It's important to note that there can be considerable variation in these ages. Some children may lose their first tooth as early as 4 or as late as 7. Similarly, the eruption of adult teeth can vary in timing.

5. Dental Check-ups:

Regular dental check-ups are important during this phase to ensure the teeth are developing normally and to identify any potential issues early.

Remember, these ages are averages, and there can be a wide range of normal variation. If there are concerns about a child's teeth, it's best to consult with a dentist.

Dental Health and calcium

Calcium levels in the body do have a relationship with dental health, as calcium is a vital mineral for the development and maintenance of strong teeth and bones. However, the connection is not always direct or simple. Here's a closer look at the relationship:

1. Role of Calcium in Dental Health:

- Calcium is a key component of tooth enamel, the hard outer layer of teeth that protects them from decay and erosion. Adequate calcium intake is crucial for developing and maintaining strong enamel.

- During tooth development, especially in childhood, adequate calcium is essential for the proper formation of teeth.

2. Calcium Deficiency and Dental Health:

- While a deficiency in dietary calcium can affect the development of teeth and bones, in adults, the body's response to low calcium typically affects the bones first, rather than the teeth.

- If the body is deficient in calcium, it may start to resorb it from bones to maintain necessary levels in the blood. This can lead to conditions like osteoporosis, but the impact on teeth is not as immediate or pronounced, as the body does not resorb calcium from teeth in the same way.

3. Calcium and Periodontal (Gum) Disease:

- There is some evidence suggesting that low dietary calcium intake may be associated with an increased risk of periodontal disease.

4. Calcium Intake and Oral Health:

- Regular and sufficient intake of calcium throughout life is important for maintaining dental health. Foods rich in calcium, such as dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods, should be part of a balanced diet.

- However, dietary calcium needs to be balanced with other nutrients, like vitamin D and phosphorus, for optimal absorption and utilisation by the body.

5. Direct Impact on Tooth Strength:

- The strength and health of adult teeth are more influenced by ongoing maintenance, including fluoride exposure, oral hygiene practices, diet, and regular dental care, than by short-term fluctuations in calcium levels.

- Once teeth are formed and in place, their mineral content changes very little. Thus, the direct impact of fluctuating calcium levels in the body on the strength of adult teeth is limited.

In summary, while calcium is essential for the development and overall health of teeth, especially during the formative years, its levels in the body are not directly indicative of the strength of someone’s teeth in adulthood. Maintaining good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental check-ups are critical for lifelong dental health.

Is Cheese good for your teeth?

Cheese is generally considered good for dental health due to several reasons related to its composition and the way it interacts with the oral environment:

1. High in Calcium and Phosphates:

- Cheese is rich in calcium and phosphates, essential minerals that help strengthen tooth enamel, the outer protective layer of the teeth. This remineralisation process helps repair enamel that has been demineralised by acids.

2. Promotes Saliva Production:

- Eating cheese stimulates saliva production in the mouth. Saliva is crucial for oral health as it helps neutralise acids, rinse away food particles, and remineralise teeth by providing calcium and phosphate.

3. Alkaline Properties:

- Cheese has alkaline properties, which can help neutralise the acids produced by plaque bacteria, thereby reducing the risk of tooth decay.

4. Antibacterial Effects:

- Some studies suggest that certain components in cheese may have antibacterial properties, which can help reduce the growth of harmful bacteria in the oral cavity.

5. Low Carbohydrate Content:

- Cheese is low in carbohydrates, which means it does not contribute significantly to the formation of plaque and tooth decay, unlike sugary and starchy foods.

Metabolism of Cheese in the Body:

- Digestion: Cheese is primarily composed of fats, proteins, and minerals like calcium and phosphorus. The digestion of cheese begins in the stomach, where enzymes start to break down its protein and fat components.

- Protein Breakdown: Proteins in cheese are broken down into amino acids by the action of stomach acids and enzymes.

- Fat Metabolism :Fats are emulsified by bile acids in the small intestine, then broken down by enzymes into fatty acids and glycerol, which are absorbed into the bloodstream.

- Calcium and Phosphate Absorption: The calcium and phosphates in cheese are absorbed mainly in the small intestine and are used throughout the body for various functions, including the maintenance of healthy bones and teeth.

Cheese is a dairy product derived from milk that is produced in a wide range of flavors, textures, and forms by coagulation of the milk protein casein. It comprises proteins and fat from milk, usually the milk of cows, buffalo, goats, or sheep. During production, the milk is usually acidified, and adding the enzyme rennet causes coagulation. The solids are separated and pressed into final form. Some cheeses have molds on the rind, the outer layer, or throughout. They can vary widely in taste, texture, and form, ranging from hard to soft, mild to pungent, simple to complex. The process of cheese making involves several steps including curdling, curd processing, and ripening. Cheeses are also classified by their aging period and the type of milk used, which influences their flavor and texture. There are thousands of cheese types worldwide, making it a versatile ingredient in recipes or enjoyed as a standalone snack.

In summary, cheese can be beneficial for dental health due to its ability to strengthen enamel, neutralise oral acids, promote saliva production, and potentially inhibit harmful bacteria. However, it should be consumed as part of a balanced diet. Good oral hygiene practices are also essential for maintaining overall dental health.