Canine teeth, often called “eye teeth,” are the pointed teeth located between the flatter incisors at the front of the mouth and the broader premolars further back. These teeth are designed for tearing food, complementing the cutting action of incisors and grinding ability of molars. Beyond their role in processing food, canines are important for maintaining the alignment and stability of other teeth, contributing to dental arch structure and function.
When Baby Canines Emerge
Baby canine teeth erupt within a specific age range. They emerge after the central and lateral incisors, and usually after the first molars. Upper baby canines appear between 16 and 22 months, and lower canines erupt slightly later, from 17 to 23 months. By three years, most children have all 20 primary teeth, including canines.
While these timelines provide a general guide, a child’s teeth may appear a few months earlier or later than average. The sequence of tooth eruption is often more consistent than the exact timing. Parents may observe some discomfort as teeth break through the gums.
When Adult Canines Appear
Permanent canine teeth replace baby canines in the dental arch. Adult canines begin erupting between 9 and 13 years. Lower permanent canines often emerge first, between 9 and 10 years. Upper permanent canines follow, appearing between 11 and 12 years.
Canines are often among the last permanent teeth to erupt, sometimes after the premolars. By 13 years, most individuals have all permanent teeth, excluding wisdom teeth. Similar to baby teeth, the timing of adult canine eruption varies among individuals.
What Can Affect Canine Eruption and When to Consult a Dentist
Several factors can influence the timing and path of canine eruption. Genetics play a role; a child’s dental development often mirrors that of their parents or close relatives. Nutritional status is also influential, as adequate intake of vitamins (A, C, D) and minerals (calcium, phosphorus) is important for tooth formation and eruption.
Overall health conditions, including systemic diseases or syndromes like hypothyroidism or Down syndrome, can also impact eruption schedules, often causing delays. Local factors, such as lack of jaw space due to crowding or prolonged retention of baby teeth, can physically obstruct permanent canine eruption. Sometimes, a permanent canine can become impacted, meaning it is trapped beneath the gum line or bone, preventing proper emergence.
It is advisable to consult a dentist for significant delays in canine eruption. For baby teeth, a dental evaluation is warranted if no teeth emerge by 18 months, or if there is a noticeable absence of any teeth by nine months. For permanent canines or any teeth, signs needing professional assessment include:
Prolonged delay beyond typical age ranges
Visible gaps where a tooth should be
Misalignment of adjacent teeth
Persistent pain, discomfort, swelling, or redness in the gums
Regular dental check-ups, starting with a child’s first tooth or by age one, help monitor dental development and address any concerns early.