Reviewed by Dr Kathryn Stanley
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Reading Time: Three Minutes
Losing baby teeth is a big milestone, and it usually marks the start of something even more exciting, the arrival of permanent teeth.
As a parent, you might be wondering when to expect this transition and what is considered “normal”.
Let’s walk through the natural process of primary and permanent tooth eruption, what early or late changes might mean, and how to support your child through every wiggly baby tooth and new adult tooth.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Children typically start losing baby teeth around age 6, and most permanent teeth come in between ages 6 and 13—except for wisdom teeth, which may erupt between 17 and 21. Regular dental checkups during these years are essential for tracking tooth development and catching any issues early.
Primary Tooth Eruption
Most babies begin getting teeth between 6 and 12 months of age, though the timing can vary widely from child to child. Teeth usually erupt in pairs, starting with the lower front central incisors.
| Tooth Type | Eruption Age (Months) |
| Central Incisors | 6 to 12 months |
| Lateral Incisors | 9 to 16 months |
| Canines (Cuspids) | 16 to 23 months |
| First Molars | 13 to 19 months |
| Second Molars | 23 to 33 months |
Primary tooth eruption chart
When Do Kids Start Losing Their Baby Teeth?
Most children begin losing their primary teeth (also known as baby teeth, milk teeth, or deciduous teeth) around age 6. The primary tooth eruption process typically wraps up by age 3, and the permanent teeth begin to take over several years later.
That said, tooth development can vary widely from child to child. Some may start losing teeth as early as age 5, while others don’t lose their first baby tooth until age 7 or later. Both timelines can be completely normal.
Losing a tooth at age 5 is often still part of the natural process, especially if it happens in the usual order. If a tooth comes out early due to injury or decay, your pediatric dentist may want to evaluate the area to make sure the permanent tooth has enough room and is developing as it should.
Permanent Tooth Eruption
Most kids begin getting their permanent teeth around age 6, and the process continues into the teen years. The chart below outlines the typical age range for each type of tooth to erupt.
| Tooth Type | When It Typically Erupts |
| FirstPermanent Molars | 6 to 7 years |
| Central Incisors | 6 to 7 years |
| Lateral Incisor | 7 to 8 years |
| Canines (Cuspids) | 9 to 12 years |
| First Premolars | 10 to 11 years |
| Second Premolars | 10 to 12 years |
| SecondPermanent Molars | 11 to 13 years |
| Wisdom Teeth(Third Molars) | 17 to 21 years (if they erupt at all) |
Permanent tooth eruption chart
These ages are averages, and it’s very normal for some children to be early or late in this timeline. The key is that teeth are erupting in a generally expected sequence and position.
Download our baby teeth to adult teeth tracker!
When Tooth Eruption Happens Later Than Expected
Late tooth eruption can be completely harmless, especially if there is a family history of delayed dental development. However, sometimes it can be caused by:
- Supernumerary teeth (extra teeth blocking eruption)
- Unerupted teeth stuck in the bone
- Trauma or infection
- Certain medical conditions
Every child’s dental timeline is a little different, and regular dental exams are one of the best ways to ensure everything is progressing as it should. Your pediatric dentist will monitor how your child’s teeth are erupting, falling out, and making space for permanent teeth.
Supporting the Transition From Baby Teeth to Adult Teeth
This transition can sometimes be bumpy, especially if a permanent tooth starts coming in before the baby tooth has fallen out. When this happens, it may create a “shark tooth” appearance (two rows of teeth).
Often, the primary tooth just needs a little time (and some wiggling) to come out naturally. But in some cases, we may recommend gently extracting it to allow the adult tooth to move into place properly.
It’s also important to maintain regular dental checkups during this period. X-rays can help your pediatric dentist monitor unerupted teeth and check the alignment of the upper teeth, molars, and any developing bite issues.
Book a Dental Exam & Cleaning in Overland Park, KS
At Stanley Pediatric Dentistry in Overland Park, we love helping parents understand what’s normal, what’s not, and how to make this transition smooth for kids of all ages. Whether your child just lost their first baby tooth or you are concerned about late tooth eruption, we are here to help every step of the way.
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.
