How many baby teeth does a child typically have?

Children typically have a total of 20 primary teeth, commonly referred to as "baby teeth." These teeth usually begin to emerge around six months of age and continue to appear until the child is about three years old. The sequence and timing of the eruption of these teeth can vary, but by the age of three, most children will have complete set of all 20 baby teeth.

Having 20 baby teeth is important for numerous reasons, including aiding in chewing, helping with speech development, and maintaining the proper spacing for the permanent teeth that will eventually replace them. Understanding this dental development is crucial for pediatric nursing care, as it informs assessments and guidance related to oral health in young children.