If you have a young child, you know that life is full of uncertainties. It can be difficult to know when to expect different milestones, like when their baby teeth are supposed to erupt and when they will become wiggly and fall out. Every child is different, but helping your little one through all these exciting dental changes can ensure that they are set up for their future! Continue reading to learn more about your child’s baby teeth so you know what you can look forward to in the future.
When Do Primary Teeth Erupt?
Children usually develop 20 baby teeth, also called “primary teeth.” There is a wide range of variability when it comes to the time of the first eruption. Generally speaking, the teeth usually first start poking through the gums at about 6 months of age. The first teeth to come in are almost always the lower front teeth, called the “lower central incisors.” When your child’s first tooth pokes through the gum tissue, this is a great time to schedule their first dental visit. As your child’s teeth start coming in, they may experience some discomfort and tenderness in that area. You can help by providing them with chilled teething rings, gently massaging their gums with a clean finger, and giving age-appropriate doses of infant pain medication – like acetaminophen (Tylenol). Most kids have all of their primary teeth by the time they are three years old.
How to Keep Baby Teeth in Good Health
You can’t expect your child to maintain a healthy smile without an excellent oral hygiene routine. You should help your child brush their teeth in the morning and before bedtime. Once a day, you should also help them floss. It is recommended that children see their dentist every six months for regular cleanings and checkups. This gives their dentist a chance to monitor their development and keep an eye out for dental issues early on. When cavities, gingivitis, and other issues are detected, they can be addressed quickly before becoming serious.
When Should Primary Teeth Fall Out?
Most of the time, baby teeth start to loosen and fall out around the time that children go to elementary school full-time – so around Kindergarten or 1st grade. In most 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 as your child’s permanent teeth are growing in, so they can look forward to multiple visits from the tooth fairy during this time. Keep in mind that every child is different, so the time that their primary teeth fall out can vary by a few years.
The development of teeth is an exciting milestone for children and adults. By bringing your child in for regular visits, their teeth can be monitored, so you can set their growing smile up for success!
About the Author
Dr. Michael Royce is an experienced pediatric dentist who takes pride in serving the needs of younger smiles in Hillsboro. He earned his dental doctorate from The Oregon Health Sciences University School of Dentistry and is a board-certified Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. To learn more about pediatric dentistry or to schedule an appointment for your child, visit his website or call (503) 640-6565.