Losing Baby Teeth

Losing baby teeth is one of the most memorable milestones of childhood — often accompanied by wide smiles, a visit from the Tooth Fairy, and a bit of nervous excitement. But for many parents, this process can also raise questions: When should it start? Is everything on track? What should we watch out for? 

Here is a simple guide to help you understand what is normal and what to expect when your child begins to lose their baby teeth. 

When Do Children Start Losing Baby Teeth? 

Most children lose their first baby tooth around age 6, though anywhere between 5 and 7 years old is considered normal. The front bottom teeth (lower central incisors) are usually the first to go, followed by the top front teeth. 

By the time your child is around 12 to 13 years old, most — if not all — of their 20 baby teeth will have fallen out, making way for 28 permanent adult teeth (excluding wisdom teeth). 

The Order of Tooth Loss 

Baby teeth generally fall out in the same order they came in: 

1. Lower central incisors 
2. Upper central incisors 
3. Lateral incisors 
4. First molars 
5. Canines (cuspids) 
6. Second molars 

This pattern can vary slightly from child to child, but any major deviation or significant delay might warrant a chat with your child’s dentist. 

Does Losing Teeth Hurt? 

Losing a baby tooth is usually not painful, but children may experience some mild discomfort, especially if the tooth is wobbly but not ready to come out. Avoid forcing a tooth out — it will fall out naturally when the roots have dissolved enough. 

If your child wants to help it along, encourage gentle wiggling with clean fingers or tissue. 

Make It Fun! 

Many families celebrate lost teeth with a visit from the Tooth Fairy, which can turn this moment into a fun and positive experience. Some parents leave small rewards like coins, notes, or a tiny toy to make it special. 

You can even create a “Tooth Fairy pillow” or chart to track which teeth have been lost. 

Oral Care During the Transition 

Losing teeth does not mean skipping oral hygiene! In fact, it is more important than ever to: 

• Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste 

• Floss once daily (especially around the back molars) 

• Visit the dentist every 6 months 

Permanent teeth need a strong, clean foundation to grow properly. 

When to See a Dentist 

Here are a few signs that may need professional attention: 

• No teeth lost by age 7–8 

• Teeth falling out too early (before age 4) 

• Adult teeth growing in behind baby teeth (“shark teeth”) 

• Pain, swelling, or signs of infection 

• A baby tooth that is very loose but does not fall out for months 

Always consult your child’s dentist if you are concerned — regular dental checkups are the best way to track healthy development. 

Losing baby teeth is a natural part of growing up — a visible sign that your little one is growing into a bigger kid. While each child’s timeline may vary, a healthy mouth and positive attitude can make the entire process smoother. 

For any questions about your child’s teeth outside of office hours, we’re here to help! Simply book a telemedicine appointment with one of our pediatricians by clicking here.