Baby Teeth: What to Expect When Your Child Loses Their First Teeth

For many parents, the most pivotal moment in their child’s dental health care is when a baby begins teething. However, when your child’s baby teeth begin to fall out there is a lot more happening than meets the eye. In the following article, we dig deep to help you and your child ensure their permanent teeth come through without a hitch! 

What age do children begin to lose their teeth?

Just as we aren’t able to pinpoint the exact age of children’s teeth coming through we also are unable to give an exact guess as to when they will lose their first tooth. However this usually occurs around the ages of 6 or 7 years old. They can fall out in some cases as early as 4 years old or as late as 8 years old. If your child has not lost any teeth by this age we would recommend visiting the dentist for a check up.

How do baby teeth fall out?

Unless your child suffers from a dental disease or an accident their teeth will be pushed up from below by their second teeth. When this happens your child will notice their tooth is loose and wobbly. It is ok for the child to gently wiggle their wobbly tooth and this a great time to explain to them what is happening. Do not allow the tooth to be yanked out as the root has not yet disintegrated naturally. If the tooth does fall out when the root is not disintegrated there is a chance of infection.

Why do the second set of teeth look different?

You will notice the second teeth may appear to have ridges on them, this is due to the fact they have not yet been used to chew on food. These teeth will also appear bigger which they are as these are their adult teeth.

What should you do to ensure their second permanent teeth are healthy?

Each child is different and each child will behave differently when faced with having to brush their teeth. Working with your child creates a relaxed and fun environment where you can introduce them to a routine of brush, book and bath. We have a great guide to help you with called 7 Top Tips For Tooth Brushing Kids.

  • Ensure they eat a varied and healthy diet, with calcium rich food.
  • Avoid sugary drinks and sweets
  • Brush teeth using a gentle eco-friendly brush and ensure that they always use a pea sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.

If you already have a membership plan with Bright and White Dental Spa your children under 16 will receive complimentary examinations. If you are not and would like to learn more about this you can visit our Members Packages page.

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