When Your Child Will Get and Lose Their Teeth

Today, we’re focusing on a question that many parents ask: When will my child get and lose their teeth? Growing and losing baby teeth are some of the main milestones of childhood, but it may seem a little confusing about what happens and when it happens. Keep reading to find out what our pediatric dentist has to say!

In general, baby teeth appear and shed in reverse order. So, the first ones that come in are also the first to shed while the last that appear are the last ones to fall out. The typical order for teeth to appear and shed is:

Central Incisors

Most babies have one or more tooth eruptions by the time they’re 12 months old. Your child should visit their Ponte Vedra pediatric dentist for the first time when their first tooth erupts, or at 12 months, whichever comes first.

The lower central incisors, the bottom front teeth, are usually the first to erupt at 6-10 months. The upper central incisors, the top front teeth, erupt at 8-12 months.

The central incisors are also the first teeth to fall out when your child is typically around 6 or 7 years old.

Lateral Incisors

The lower lateral incisors, the ones bordering the front teeth, appear at 10-16 months. The upper lateral incisors appear at 9-13 months. These lateral incisors usually fall out at age 7-8.

Canines

The upper canine teeth erupt at 16-22 months and fall out at 10-12 years old. The lower canines erupt at 17-23 months and fall out at 9-12 years old.

First Molars

The upper first molars, in the back of the mouth, erupt at 13-19 months and the bottom first molars come in at 14-18 months. Both the top and bottom first molars fall out at 9-11 years old.

Second Molars

The upper second molars erupt at 25-33 months, while the lower second molars come in at 23-31 months. Both the upper and lower second molars fall out at around age 10-12.

Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth usually come in much later, typically in the late teens. However, not every young person gets wisdom teeth at all and some just get a couple. Contrary to popular belief, wisdom teeth don’t always require removal but it is typically recommended.

When your child’s wisdom teeth erupt, or when X-ray imaging shows that they’re coming in, your pediatric dentistry specialist may recommend removal based on your child’s individual needs.

Overall, the majority of young people have a complete set of teeth when they enter their teenage years. The process of tooth loss and tooth eruption can be uncomfortable at times, but in general, the light pain is over very quickly. A saltwater solution, swished lightly in the mouth, can ease discomfort and clean gauze can stop bleeding after a tooth falls out. Also, you can apply a cold set cloth to soothe any pain.

What Happens if Teeth Don’t Erupt or Fall Out as Expected?

There’s no need to panic if your child’s teeth don’t all erupt and fall out at the expected times. But, it does warrant a visit to your experts in Ponte Vedra. Your child’s baby teeth work as placeholders for their adult ones, so keeping them on track is important for long-term oral health.

In some circumstances, your child may need childhood tooth extraction or a combination of braces and tooth extraction to help ensure optimal tooth positioning and oral health long term. That will all be discussed if needed. 

Contact Ponte Vedra Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

At Ponte Vedra Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, the experienced pediatric dentistry team goes the extra mile to give your child everything they need to enjoy the best in oral health and wellness throughout their childhood and entire lifetime. The team welcomes new patients and established patients at their Ponte Vedra, Florida office. Use the online appointment request to arrange an appointment for your child, or call the office at (904) 373-5120.