Baby teeth, also known as deciduous teeth or milk teeth, are the first set of teeth that develop in humans. They begin to erupt at around 6 months of age and are typically all in place by age 3. Baby teeth are important for chewing, speaking, and smiling. They also help to hold space for the permanent teeth that will eventually replace them.
In most cases, baby teeth will fall out naturally as the permanent teeth come in. However, there are times when a dentist may need to remove a baby tooth. This may be necessary if the tooth is loose and causing pain, if it is the permanent tooth from coming in, or if it is decayed.