primary dentition

[ˈpraɪmeri denˈtɪʃən]
nounpl: primary dentitions
dentição primária
1. The first set of teeth that develop in humans, consisting of 20 teeth that typically emerge between 6 months and 3 years of age and are shed by age 12-13
The primary dentition includes incisors, canines, and molars that help children chew food and develop proper speech.
A dentição primária inclui incisivos, caninos e molares que ajudam as crianças a mastigar alimentos e desenvolver a fala adequada.
2. Commonly referred to as baby teeth or deciduous teeth in the context of pediatric dentistry
Proper care of primary dentition is essential for the healthy development of permanent teeth.
O cuidado adequado da dentição primária é essencial para o desenvolvimento saudável dos dentes permanentes.
In both Brazilian and American contexts, primary dentition is a significant milestone in childhood development. In Brazil, 'dentes de leite' (milk teeth) is the colloquial term widely used by parents and caregivers, while dental professionals use the formal 'dentição primária'. The care of primary dentition is considered important for future oral health, and pediatric dental visits are increasingly recommended starting around age 1-2. This terminology reflects the universal importance of early dental health in child development across Portuguese and English-speaking cultures.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
baby teethdeciduous dentitionmilk teethtemporary dentitionprimary teeth
Antonyms / Antônimos
permanent dentitionsecondary dentitionadult dentition

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
dentição primária
Standard medical and dental terminology
Brazil - colloquial
dentes de leite
Commonly used informal term meaning 'milk teeth'
Portugal
dentição primária / dentes de leite
Both terms are used; medical contexts prefer 'dentição primária'
Latin America - clinical
dentición decidua / dentición temporal
Spanish equivalent used in neighboring countries

Related Words

eruptionexfoliationdeciduous teethpermanent teethpediatric dentistrytooth developmentmalocclusionorthodontics

Related Idioms & Phrases

teething stage
losing baby teeth
primary tooth eruption
exfoliation of primary dentition
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