If you’re a parent, you may be wondering when your child’s baby teeth will finish coming in, and when they’ll fall out and be replaced by adult teeth. You may also have questions about potential complications related to baby tooth loss, and other topics related to early childhood oral development. In this guide from Miles Of Little Smiles, you can get the answers you need!
Baby Teeth Typically All Emerge By 3 Years & Fall Out Between 10-12 Years
Most children get their first teeth by the age of 6 months. By the age of about 12 months, most children have their upper and lower central and lateral incisors (front teeth). The first molars usually come in between the ages of 14-18 months, followed by the upper and lower canines at around 16-22 months, and the final set of second molars by 33 months, at most.
Your children’s baby teeth are lost in this order, too. Their incisors fall out first and are replaced by adult teeth between the ages of 6-8. Their first molars and canines fall out between the ages of 9-12, and their final set of second molars will fall out between the ages of 10-12, in most cases.
In short, your child’s teeth should have all erupted by the age of 3. At the age of about 6, they will begin losing their teeth, which will be replaced by permanent teeth. By the age of 12-13, all of their baby teeth will have been replaced by adult teeth.
Never Pull Out A Loose Baby Tooth – Let Them Fall Out Naturally
When a child has a loose tooth, don’t remove it by pulling it or wiggling it. Just let it fall out naturally. Pulling a loose tooth before it’s supposed to come out can cause pain, bleeding, and discomfort.
It’s better to just let it loosen over time as your child moves it around, and it naturally falls out. Some parents may be worried that their child will swallow the tooth. This is rare, but even if it does happen, it will pass harmlessly through their digestive system.
Complications Related To Baby Teeth Falling Out
There are some complications that can affect your child’s teeth as they begin to emerge. If you notice these issues, you may wish to schedule a consultation with a pediatric dentist.
- One or more baby teeth that did not erupt – If your child is missing one or more baby teeth, it’s unlikely that they have a permanent tooth below the area where the tooth is supposed to be. This is called “hypodontia,” or “congenitally missing teeth.” See a dentist if this affects your child.
- Premature baby tooth loss – If your child has a tooth knocked out early or has a tooth that must be extracted due to damage or infection, you need to see a pediatric dentist for a space maintainer. This can prevent oral development issues when your child grows and their adult teeth emerge.
- Baby teeth that don’t fall out – In some cases, one or more baby teeth may not fall out. This usually happens if there is no adult tooth developing to replace it. In most cases, this is not harmful, either. The tooth can usually be left in place, but it’s still a good idea to consult with a dentist for a diagnosis and treatment recommendation
Contact Miles Of Little Smiles For Guidance As Your Little One’s Teeth Grow
Dr. Mila Belgrade and Dr. Dikla Chazbani can help you understand more about the process as your child sheds their baby teeth and their adult teeth erupt. With expert pediatric dental care from Miles of Little Smiles, you can get peace of mind, and know your little one’s mouth is healthy. So don’t wait. Schedule a check-up at our office by contacting us online or giving us a call at (914) 949-6655.