Anatomy and Development of the Mouth and Teeth Children's teeth
begin developing in the fetus. Good nutrition from the mother
during pregnancy is important in the development of the teeth.
The mother's diet should have adequate amounts of calcium,
phosphorus, vitamin C, and vitamin D. Certain medications, such
as tetracycline, should not be taken by the mother while she is
pregnant as these can cause discoloration to the developing
teeth of the embryo. There are four main stages of development
of the tooth: The first stage begins in the fetus at about six
weeks of age. This is when the basic substance of the tooth
forms. Next, the hard tissue that surrounds the teeth is formed,
around three to four months of gestation. After the child is
born, the next stage occurs when the tooth actually protrudes
through the gum. Finally, there is the loss of the primary
"baby" teeth. Parts of the tooth Each tooth has four main parts,
including the following: Enamel. The outer layer of the tooth.
Dentin. The inner layer and