Melkkiezen

Melkkiezen, or milk teeth, are the first set of teeth in humans. They consist of 20 teeth: 8 incisors, 4 canines, and 8 molars. The enamel of primary teeth is commonly thinner than that of permanent teeth, and the roots are designed to resorb as the permanent successors develop.

Development and eruption typically begin before birth in the dental buds and continue after birth. Eruption usually starts around 6 to 10 months, often with the lower central incisors, and continues over the next couple of years. By about age 2 to 3, most children have a complete primary dentition. Primary teeth are eventually shed as the jaw grows and permanent teeth are formed and erupt, usually beginning around age 6 and continuing into early adolescence.

Functionally, melkkiezen provide essential chewing ability, aid in speech development, and help maintain proper spacing for the incoming permanent teeth. They also support jaw and facial development during early childhood. Because they are the first teeth, their health is important for overall dental habits.

Health considerations include the risk of early childhood caries (ECC) and the importance of good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and fluoride use as appropriate. Avoiding prolonged bottle feeding with sugary liquids and limiting sugary snacks can help prevent decay. If primary teeth are lost prematurely, space maintainers or other dental interventions may be considered to guide the eruption of permanent teeth.

In everyday language, melkkiezen are the temporary teeth that prepare the mouth for the eventual permanent dentition.