For parents, watching their child lose their baby teeth is a bittersweet milestone. It’s a signal of growth and development, with many children proudly showing off their gaps as they wait for their adult teeth to take their place. However, this process can sometimes bring about questions or worries. Is it happening too early? Too late? Should you worry about how your child’s teeth are falling out?
At Sandwich Dentistry, your trusted family dentist in Sandwich, IL, we’ve taken care of many young smiles and guided families through this natural stage. To put your mind at ease, we’ve outlined what’s normal, what’s not, and how to best care for your child during this exciting period.
Typical Milestones in Losing Baby Teeth
Most kids begin losing their baby teeth around age six. The process generally follows a sequential order, mirroring how the teeth first came in. Here’s the Mayo Clinic’s typical timeline for losing baby teeth:
- Bottom and Top Front Teeth: Ages 6–7
- Lower and Upper Side Teeth: Ages 7–8
- First Molars: Ages 9–11
- Canines: Ages 10–12
- Second Molars: Ages 10–12
Common Variations Parents Shouldn’t Worry About
Not every child will follow the typical timeline for losing baby teeth, so this is usually no cause for alarm. Some children may start losing teeth earlier than five, or hold onto their baby teeth past age seven.
Other common variations include:
- Losing Teeth Out of Order: While teeth usually fall out in the same sequence they emerged, some kids may lose them in a slightly different sequence. That’s okay!
- Gaps or Crowding: If spaces form between teeth or adult teeth come in slightly crooked, it’s often temporary and part of normal development.
- “Shark Teeth”: Occasionally, adult teeth emerge before a baby tooth falls out, giving the appearance of two rows of teeth. This often resolves itself naturally.
If you’re unsure about whether your child’s situation is normal, the team at Sandwich Dentistry can provide reassurance and guidance.
When to Consult a Family Dentist in Sandwich, IL
While some variations are normal, there are certain situations where a visit to the dentist is recommended to ensure your child’s oral health is on track. These include:
- Delayed Tooth Loss: If no baby teeth have fallen out by age seven, it’s a good idea to talk to us, as they may need assistance to make way for adult teeth.
- Premature Tooth Loss: If your child loses a tooth before the typical age, this could be due to tooth decay, trauma, or other issues. We can address the cause.
- Pain or Discomfort: Losing teeth should not be painful, so any significant discomfort or sensitivity is worth a professional evaluation.
- Signs of Infection: Swelling, redness, or pus at the site of a lost tooth could indicate infection. Get same-day care at our office.
- Abnormal Adult Teeth Emergence: If adult teeth are erupting in unusual positions or angles, we may recommend proactive care to guide proper alignment.
Tips for Parents During the Baby Teeth Stage
You play a vital role in protecting your child’s oral health and guiding them through losing baby teeth. Here are a few practical tips from our Sandwich, IL, family dentist to make the process smoother.
Encourage Proper Oral Hygiene
Teach your child to brush gently around loose teeth and maintain a consistent brushing and flossing routine. We can also provide them with tips during their kid-friendly cleanings and checkups.
Be Gentle with Wiggly Teeth
Avoid forcing a tooth out prematurely. Encourage your child to wiggle it gently with their tongue or fingers, but not to yank or use force.
Offer Soft Foods as Needed
If a loose tooth makes eating uncomfortable, provide soft foods like applesauce or yogurt until it falls out. Keep up communication with your child and check in with them to make sure they’re handling the transition well.
Ease Their Fears
If your child is nervous about losing teeth, talk them through the process, emphasizing how normal and exciting it is. Sharing your own experiences of losing teeth can help them feel more at ease. We can help you discuss this topic with your little one.
Visit Our Sandwich, IL, Family Dentist Regularly
Consistent dental appointments help detect and address any issues early. We can also answer any questions your child may have, which can further reduce anxieties and help create a solid relationship with our dentist.
Support for All the Little Milestones (and Big Smiles) Ahead
Losing baby teeth is a natural part of growing up, and while it can sometimes feel a little stressful, you’re not alone. The team at Sandwich Dentistry is here to help your family. From routine checkups to addressing issues with delayed or premature tooth loss, we’re committed to supporting your child’s growing smile. Stay on track with our family dentist in Sandwich, IL. Get started today!