Early childhood is a special time as kids discover their world and make happy memories. One key milestone in growing up is when they start to lose their primary teeth, also called “baby teeth” or “milk teeth.” Losing baby teeth is a normal process that occurs at different ages in different children. In this article, we will discuss why babies lose their primary teeth and what it means for your child’s oral health as they grow older.
When Do Kids Start Losing Teeth?
Children typically start losing their baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, around the age of 6 or 7. This is a natural process known as tooth shedding.
The process of losing teeth usually continues until a child is around 12 years old, although it can vary from child to child. By the age of 12, most children will have lost all of their baby teeth and should have a full set of permanent teeth.
Order of Teeth Falling Out
Baby teeth typically fall out in a specific order:
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- Lower front teeth (central incisors)
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- Upper front teeth (central incisors)
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- Lower front teeth (lateral incisors)
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- Upper front teeth (lateral incisors)
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- First molars (back teeth)
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- Canine teeth (pointed teeth next to the lateral incisors)
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- Second molars (back teeth)
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- Wisdom teeth (these usually need to be extracted)
It’s important to note that this order of losing teeth, may vary slightly from child to child, and some children may lose their teeth in a different order or experience teeth that become loose out of sequence. However, the above teeth fall out order is generally the most common sequence in which baby teeth are lost.
What To Do When Your Child Has a Loose Tooth
Losing a first tooth can be an exciting milestone for children, and as a parent, you can help make the experience enjoyable for them. Here are some things you can do when your child gets their first loose tooth:
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- Let your child wiggle the tooth. Encourage your child to wiggle the tooth gently with their tongue or finger. This can help the tooth come out more easily when it’s ready.
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- Be patient. Some children lose their first tooth earlier than others, and it’s important to be patient and not rush the process. Explain this to your child, as they may begin to wonder why they aren’t losing teeth if their friends are.
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- Prepare for the tooth fairy. If your child believes in the tooth fairy, you can help them prepare by finding a special container to put the tooth in and planning a special surprise for when the tooth fairy visits.
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- Keep the area clean. Encourage your child to continue brushing and flossing regularly to keep the area around the loose tooth clean and healthy.
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- Provide soft foods. If your child is experiencing any discomfort or pain, offer soft foods that are easy to chew.
A loose baby tooth should fall out on its own. If the loose tooth is causing any pain or you start to notice signs of infection, call your dentist to schedule an appointment.
Reasons Why a Child’s Teeth Aren’t Falling Out
If your child’s baby teeth are not falling out on their own, it’s important to consult with a dentist for professional advice and guidance. Here are some possible reasons why baby teeth may not be falling out and what you can do:
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- Delayed tooth eruption: Some children may experience a delay in the eruption of their permanent teeth, which can cause the baby teeth to remain in place longer than expected. In this case, it’s important to consult with a dentist to ensure that your child’s teeth are developing properly and that there are no underlying dental issues.
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- Retained primary teeth: In some cases, baby teeth may not fall out because the adult teeth are not developing correctly or are not in the correct position to push the baby teeth out. This can lead to retained primary teeth, which may need to be extracted to make room for permanent teeth.
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- Crowded or misaligned teeth: If your child’s teeth are crowded or misaligned, it can make it difficult for baby teeth to fall out naturally. In this case, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to help create enough space for the permanent teeth to erupt.
Reasons Why a Child’s Teeth Fall Out Too Early
All children develop on their own timeline, and there is a range of times when children start to lose their teeth, usually around 6-7 years old. However, children could start losing baby teeth earlier or later than that. If you are concerned that your child is losing their teeth too early, you should consult your pediatric dentist.
Here are some possible reasons why a child’s teeth may be falling out too early:
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- Tooth decay: Tooth decay can cause a baby tooth to become loose and fall out before it’s ready. This is a common reason why teeth may fall out too early, and it’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits to help prevent tooth decay.
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- Trauma: If a child experiences trauma to the mouth, such as a fall or an injury, it can cause a tooth to become loose or fall out prematurely.
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- Genetics: In some cases, genetics can play a role in the timing of tooth loss. If a child’s parents lost their baby teeth early, it may be more likely for the child to experience early tooth loss as well.
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- Systemic conditions: Certain systemic conditions, such as hormonal imbalances or nutritional deficiencies, can affect the development of teeth and lead to premature tooth loss.
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- Crowding or misalignment: If a child’s teeth are crowded or misaligned, it can put pressure on the baby teeth and cause them to fall out prematurely.
Schedule Your Child’s Dental Visit at Monadnock Dental Associates
At Monadnock Dental Associates, we understand the importance of scheduling regular dental check-ups for your child’s teeth. Our experienced dental team is equipped to ensure your child receives the best care in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
We focus on preventive care to help protect your children’s smiles while educating them on ways to keep their teeth healthy. From fluoride treatments and sealants to routine cleanings, our team is here to ensure your child has a positive dental experience that will last a lifetime. Schedule an appointment today for your little one at Monadnock Dental Associates!
