Parents often eagerly wait for the moment when their kids start losing teeth. And children also can’t wait to get a visit from the tooth fairy!
Nonetheless, parents need to keep track of when their kids start losing teeth so they can be sure their little ones are growing at the right pace.
So, in today’s article, we’ll discuss the timetables for losing teeth and find out whether your children have good oral health.
Average Age to Lose First Tooth
Every child is unique and special, even when we’re talking about tooth loss. there isn’t a specific date when your children will lose their first tooth.
Some children lose their first tooth as early as four years old or as late as seven years old. So, let’s take the ages of 5-6 years old as a perfect average.
Nobody can predict the period when children will lose their first tooth. However, there are early signs that can indicate tooth loss.
For example, your children might sense that their tooth is loose, so they’ll start to play with it and push it. Another sign is a red shade on the gum around the tooth.
Factors Influencing Tooth Loss Timing
Many factors can determine when kids start losing teeth. Firstly, we’ll talk about genetics and family history.
Many people believe that pearly whites can’t be genetically inherited. But that’s wrong. Teeth development heavily relies on your family history.
That also includes tooth loss timing. Another factor, according to the National Institute of Health, is nutrition and health.
For example, crunchy foods such as apples, nuts, carrots, chickpeas, and kale chips can initiate tooth loss. Some medical conditions, such as crowding (when there isn’t any space for permanent teeth), hinder tooth loss.
The Order of Tooth Loss
When you think about it, everything in this world has an order, even things as common as baby tooth loss.
The first teeth that fall out are the lower central incisors. They most commonly fall out by the ages of 6-7. The upper central incisors follow shortly after.
After your child’s done with the central incisors, it’s time for the upper and lower lateral incisors. They should fall out by the ages of 7-8.
Next up are the upper and lower first molars. These teeth should fall out somewhere between the ages of 9-11.
Next up are the upper and lower canines. They should fall out as early as 9 years of age and as late as 12 years of age.
Last come the upper and lower second molars. These teeth should fall out between the ages of 10 and 12.
Which Teeth Fall Out by Age 10
Most of your children’s teeth should have fallen out by age ten. Specifically, the teeth in question are:
- Upper and lower central incisors;
- Upper and lower lateral incisors;
- Upper and lower first molars;
The upper and lower canines follow next, while the upper and lower second molars fall out last. We didn’t include them in the list because they can fall out even after the age of 10.
How to Deal with Discomfort and Pain of Teeth Loss
Whenever your child is struggling with tooth loss pain, visiting a dentist is your first choice. But, here are some simple ways to relieve tooth loss pain at home:
- Warm and cold compresses;
- Saltwater rinses;
- Tea Bags;
- Turmeric paste;
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen (if advised by the dentist);
Permanent Teeth Eruption
Permanent teeth are an essential part of our body. We use them to eat and speak, and they also help shape our faces.
First come the upper and lower first molars along with the lower central incisors. These teeth usually erupt between the ages of 6-7.
Next follow the upper central incisors, along with the upper and lower lateral incisors, which should come out by the age of 9.
Now it’s time for the upper and lower cuspid, upper and lower first bicuspid, and upper and lower second bicuspid, which erupt between the ages of 9 and 12.
After those come the upper and lower second molars. These teeth should erupt as early as 11 and as late as 13. Lastly, we’ll talk about the upper and lower third molars. They come out between the ages of 17 and 21.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there an exact age when kids start losing teeth?
There isn’t an exact age when kids start losing teeth. They can start losing them as early as 4 and as late as 7.
What should I do if a loose tooth doesn’t come out on its own?
If the loose tooth doesn’t come out on its own and causes discomfort and pain problems for your child, visiting a dentist is the only option.
Are there any foods to avoid during the tooth transition phase?
You can avoid spicy, salty, and acidic food during the tooth transition phase.
What if my child is anxious about losing their teeth?
Tell your children that their new teeth will be stronger and more beautiful. Also, you can tell them the famous tooth fairy story!
How do I handle it if my child’s permanent teeth come in before baby teeth fall out?
You can’t solve that problem at home, so consult a dentist.
Are there any complications associated with delayed tooth loss?
Most commonly, there aren’t any complications. But, tooth loss delay can cause crooked permanent teeth.
ALSO READ: How to Burp a Sleeping Baby