Reviewed by Dr Kathryn Stanley
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Reading Time: Four Minutes
If your child’s baby teeth are starting to wiggle and fall out earlier than you expected, you might be wondering if it’s normal or something you should be concerned about.
In many cases, early tooth loss is just part of your child’s individual growth and nothing to worry about. Still, there are times when losing teeth too soon can affect how permanent teeth develop. Knowing what’s typical—and when it’s worth a visit to a pediatric dentist—can give you peace of mind.
Table of Contents
When Do Baby Teeth Usually Fall Out?
Most children start losing baby teeth around age 6. The front teeth (lower and upper central incisors) are often the first to go. Molars and canines typically stay in place until ages 10–12.
While these ages are averages, some kids are early bloomers or late bloomers. Losing a tooth a few months ahead of schedule is not usually cause for concern. But if teeth fall out years too soon, it is worth investigating the cause.
What Causes Early Tooth Loss?
Early tooth loss means a baby tooth falls out before the permanent tooth is ready to replace it. Several things can cause this, including:
- Tooth decay: Cavities that grow deep can damage the tooth and surrounding bone.
- Injury: Falls or accidents can loosen or knock out baby teeth.
- Infection or gum disease: In rare cases, untreated infections lead to early tooth loss.
- Medical conditions: Certain health issues or developmental conditions may affect when baby teeth come out.
If your child loses a tooth unexpectedly, it’s always a good idea to have it checked. A quick visit can help us see if everything is healing well and decide if any extra steps, like using a space maintainer, would be helpful for guiding the permanent tooth into place.
Why Baby Teeth Matter
Even though baby teeth are temporary, they play an important role in your child’s oral health:
- Help with chewing and speaking clearly
- Hold space for adult teeth to grow in properly
- Support jaw development
Losing baby teeth too early can lead to crowding or misalignment when permanent teeth arrive.
Key Takeaway
Most of the time, there is no cause for concern. But if you notice swelling, lingering pain, or trouble eating after a tooth comes out, it is a good idea to schedule a visit. Our team at Stanley Pediatric Dentistry is always here to help you feel confident about your child’s smile.
What About Late Tooth Loss?
Just as some children lose baby teeth early, others hold onto them longer than expected. If your child is 7 or 8 and has not lost any teeth yet, it is usually still within the range of normal development. Some kids are simply late bloomers.
A few factors can contribute to delayed tooth loss:
- Timing of when baby teeth came in: If the baby teeth erupted later than average, they often fall out later as well.
- Genetics: Some children simply follow a family pattern of slower tooth development.
- Extra teeth or crowding: Baby teeth may not loosen as quickly if the permanent teeth are not pushing through in the right position.
If your child is approaching age 8 or 9 without any wiggly teeth, or if baby teeth seem firmly in place while adult teeth are growing in behind them, consider scheduling a dental evaluation. An X-ray can show whether the permanent teeth are developing and guide any needed treatment.
The Importance of Regular Dental Exams
Whether your child’s baby teeth are coming out early, late, or right on schedule, regular dental exams are an important part of keeping their smile healthy. Routine visits allow your pediatric dentist to:
- Track how baby teeth are developing and falling out
- Watch for signs of decay or infection before they become problems
- Make sure permanent teeth have enough space to come in properly
- Offer guidance on brushing, flossing, and healthy habits
Most children should have a dental exam every six months. These appointments help catch any issues early, so your child can avoid discomfort and feel confident about their smile as they grow.
If you have questions about when your child should be seen or what to expect during a visit, our team is always here to help.
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Helping Families in Overland Park
At Stanley Pediatric Dentistry, we believe every child deserves gentle, thoughtful care in a place that feels welcoming. Our team takes time to answer your questions, ease any worries, and help your child feel comfortable at every visit. We are always welcoming new patients in Overland Park and would love to be part of your child’s dental care journey
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Overland Park, KS, call (913) 345-0331 or visit us at 8575 W 110th St Suite 310, Overland Park, KS.
FAQs About Tooth Loss
When should my child start losing baby teeth?
Most children lose their first baby tooth sometime between ages 5 and 7. The bottom front teeth are usually the first to get wiggly. If your child starts a little earlier or later, it is usually completely normal. Every child’s smile follows its own timeline.
Is it a problem if permanent teeth are coming in behind baby teeth
This is sometimes called “shark teeth,” and it’s actually very common in kids. In most cases, the baby tooth will loosen and fall out on its own as your child eats and wiggles it. If the baby tooth does not get loose after a few months or starts to crowd the new tooth, your dentist can gently remove it to help everything line up properly.
