As a parent to a small child, life is full of uncertainties. It can be challenging to know when their first teeth are going to erupt and when you can expect them to become wiggly and fall out. These are both huge milestones! Continue reading to learn more about your child’s baby teeth so you know what you can look forward to in the coming months and years.
When Do Baby Teeth Erupt?
Children usually develop 20 baby teeth, also known as primary teeth. There is a wide range of variability of when a child’s tooth first appears. However, the teeth usually poke through the gums at about 6 months of age. The first teeth that come in are almost always the lower front teeth, also known as the lower central incisors. When your child’s tooth begins to erupt, this is the perfect time to schedule their first dental visit. Most kids will have all of their primary teeth by the time they are 3 years old.
How to Keep Baby Teeth in Good Health
When maintaining a healthy smile, keeping up an excellent oral hygiene routine at home is key. That’s why it’s important to help your child with brushing twice per day and flossing regularly. You should also take them to see their dentist twice a year. This way, their dentist can monitor their development and keep an eye out for dental problems early on. When cavities, gingivitis, and other issues are detected quickly, they can be addressed before becoming too serious. By taking excellent care of your child’s baby teeth, their adult teeth will be set up for success. If you have any questions regarding your child’s smile, this is the perfect time to ask!
When Do Baby Teeth Fall Out?
Most of the time, baby teeth start to become loose and fall out around the time children go to elementary school full-time – around kindergarten or 1st grade. In the majority of cases, baby teeth fall out in the same order that they came in as their roots dissolve. Primary teeth usually come out between the ages of 6 to 13, but every child is different. If their teeth are coming out earlier or later than other kids, it’s not usually a reason to be concerned. If you have any worries, just ask their dentist.
Tooth development is an exciting milestone for kids and parents alike! The timing in which your child’s teeth erupt, become wiggly, and fall out will vary from other kids. By bringing your child to regular dental visits, their growing smile can be monitored, and the future of their pearly whites can be set up for success!
About the Author
Dr. Susan Podray-Donovan is an experienced children’s dentist who has been working in the field for over a decade. She earned her dental doctorate from Temple University, where she later obtained her Orthodontic Certification and Master’s in Biomedical Science. Currently, she stays involved in the Georgia Society of Orthodontics and serves as the Vice President of the Georgia Association of Orthodontists. To learn more about children’s dental health or to schedule an appointment for your child at her office in Cumming, visit her website or call (678) 456-5572.