A Parent’s Guide
Losing baby teeth is an exciting rite of passage, but parents often wonder: Is my child’s timeline normal? At Speedway Pediatric Dentistry, we see kids lose their first tooth anywhere from age 4 to 7 and both are perfectly fine! Here’s what to expect, when to relax, and when to call your pediatric dentist in Speedway.
(P.S. If your child already has a wiggly tooth, check out our Loose Tooth Care Guide for pain-free tips!)
Baby Teeth Loss Timeline: What’s Typical?
Most kids follow this general pattern, but variations are common:
| Tooth Type | Average Age Lost |
|---|---|
| Bottom front teeth | 6–7 years |
| Top front teeth | 7–8 years |
| First molars | 9–11 years |
| Canines | 9–12 years |
| Second molars | 10–12 years |
Fun Fact: Girls often lose teeth earlier than boys, and genetics play a big role!
Signs Your Child’s Tooth Loss Is on Track
- Teeth loosen and fall out in order (front to back).
- Adult teeth emerge behind or under baby teeth.
- Gums look pink and healthy (no swelling).
- Minimal discomfort (just excitement for the Tooth Fairy!).
Speedway Pro Tip: Crunchy foods like apples help baby teeth loosen naturally!
When to Call Your Pediatric Dentist
While late bloomers are common, contact us if you notice:
No teeth lost by age 7
Adult teeth growing behind stubborn baby teeth (“shark teeth”)
Baby teeth still firmly in place past age 8
Pain, darkening teeth, or gum infections
Early tooth loss due to injury or decay
Did You Know? Early loss of baby teeth can lead to crowding we may suggest a space maintainer.
Why Baby Teeth Matter (Even Though They Fall Out!)
Baby teeth aren’t just placeholders! They:
Guide adult teeth into the right positions.
Help kids chew and speak clearly.
Prevent jaw misalignment.
Neglecting them can mean braces or extractions later.
Parent Tips for Stress-Free Tooth Loss
Keep brushing! Loose teeth still need care to avoid decay.
Skip the string. Let teeth fall out naturally unless we advise otherwise.
Celebrate milestones! Try our free Tooth Fairy Certificate (ask at your next visit!).
Schedule a checkup if you’re unsure about timing.
FAQs About Losing Baby Teeth
Q: What if my 5-year-old loses a tooth early?
A: Some kids start at 4–5! If adult teeth aren’t crowding, it’s likely fine but we can verify with an X-ray.*
Q: Are “shark teeth” an emergency?
A: Not usually! The baby tooth often falls out on its own. If it lingers >2 months, we’ll help.*
Q: How can I ease gum tenderness?
A: A cold washcloth or kid-safe pain reliever works wonders.*
Need a Smile Check? Trust Speedway’s #1 pediatric dental team! Call 317-299-0353 or book online.
Explore more: Baby Teething 101 | Restorative Dentistry for Kids
