Grades K–2 · Organisms
How does a baby tooth make room for an adult tooth?
An adult tooth is not a baby tooth that grew bigger. It is a separate tooth that develops in the jaw. During childhood, many of these permanent teeth take the places of baby teeth.
In the diagramAn adult tooth develops below a baby toothThe baby root is resorbed; the crown does not grow biggerBaby toothPermanenttoothLess root support lets the baby tooth loosenPermanent molars also grow behind baby teeth.
A baby tooth has roots that help hold it in place. As replacement happens, the body breaks down much of the baby root and takes its material away. With less root support, the baby tooth becomes loose and can fall out. The permanent tooth moves into its place.
Not every permanent tooth replaces a baby tooth. Permanent molars also grow farther back in the jaw, behind the baby teeth. Different teeth appear at different times. The drawing follows just one example pair of teeth, so it shows the idea of replacement without setting a schedule.
About this explanation
Starting knowledge: Know teeth have roots below the visible crown.
Sources
- American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren — When Children Begin to Lose their Baby Teeth
- American Dental Association, MouthHealthy — Eruption Charts