Children grow and develop at different rates. When children reach the age of 4 to 4 ½ years old, they can expect their whole world to change beginning with the loss of their primary (baby) teeth.

In some cases, children can expect to lose their first tooth during their preschool years. In some cases children lose their teeth later, which may cause them to experience dental problems, like crowding.

Crowding occurs when there is a lack of space inside the mouth to accommodate the teeth. Teeth may become twisted, displaced, or crowded (teeth growing in front, on the side or behind other teeth). Therefore, children who do not lose their baby teeth by a certain age should see their pediatric dentist as soon as possible.

Losing Baby Teeth

In the meantime, parents can help their children adjust to losing their baby teeth. While the experience can be nerve-racking, it is also exciting. Parents can explain to their children the pain associated with getting a new tooth. While some experiences are not painful, others are.

Some children can relate better to the folklore tale of the “Tooth Fairy”. Parents would tell their children to place their tooth under their pillow for the tooth fairy. In exchange for the tooth, the tooth fairy will leave some money as compensation for the tooth. Younger children are more apt to believe this story, and they will look forward to losing a baby tooth or two.

Be sure to let children know that for every tooth they lose, another tooth will grow in its place. By the time children reach adolescence, between the ages of 12 to 13, they should have all of their permanent teeth. Don't be surprised if children begin losing their teeth before preschool. Remember, children mature and develop at an amazing rate, and no two children are the same.

Should I worry if my child still has all baby teeth at age 7?

Baby teeth often fall out in the same order as they developed. Some children are late bloomers and don't lose many teeth before age seven. However, losing only one tooth past the age of seven can be cause for concern. Check with your dentist to ensure there are no underlying problems.

Losing primary teeth is a natural occurrence. The loss of permanent teeth presents the biggest problems. Parents know that their child’s smile is safe and secure at Wright Smiles. In fact, our parents can get a complete guide of how their children’s teeth should form and develop, from birth to adulthood.

Every smile is worth saving, and every child is special. We make every visit as special as the first visit. Give our office a call and schedule your child’s firstkids dentist visit today. We are all smiles, toothless and all.