What is the term for the first set of teeth that are shed and replaced?

What is the term for the first set of teeth that are shed and replaced?

• A. Primary teeth
• B. Secondary teeth
• C. Deciduous teeth
• D. Temporary teeth

Answer: (C)

Deciduous teeth are the first set of teeth that develop in childhood and are shed to make way for the permanent teeth. The term deciduous comes from Latin and means “falling off,” which describes the natural exfoliation as the roots resorb when the permanent teeth erupt. They’re also commonly called baby teeth and are part of the primary dentition. While some sources use primary teeth to refer to this same set, deciduous teeth specifically emphasizes the shedding aspect, making it the most precise term for this description. Temporary teeth is not the standard clinical label.

Deciduous teeth are the first set of teeth that develop in childhood and are shed to make way for the permanent teeth. The term deciduous comes from Latin and means “falling off,” which describes the natural exfoliation as the roots resorb when the permanent teeth erupt. They’re also commonly called baby teeth and are part of the primary dentition. While some sources use primary teeth to refer to this same set, deciduous teeth specifically emphasizes the shedding aspect, making it the most precise term for this description. Temporary teeth is not the standard clinical label.